Clothed with Grace: God Chose the Wise Men

Wednesday, December 17, 2014

God Chose the Wise Men

Today I'm continuing my series leading up to Christmas called, "God Chose.."  I've shared with you in past posts how God chose Mary, Joseph, the stable, and the shepherds, and today I'm going to share how God chose the wise men.

I thought I'd start by sharing a little bit about what it really means when these men were referred to as "wise men," also known as the "magi." These men were actually part of a religion that focused on astrology and regarded that as a science. They believed in magic as well; these men were not Jewish or followers of God originally.  So why did God chose them?

Here's the story told in Mathew 2:

"Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the east came to Jerusalem, saying, “Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.” When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him; and assembling all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Christ was to be born. They told him, “In Bethlehem of Judea, for so it is written by the prophet:
  “‘And you, O Bethlehem, in the land of Judah,
    are by no means least among the rulers of Judah;
for from you shall come a ruler
    who will shepherd my people Israel.’”
  Then Herod summoned the wise men secretly and ascertained from them what time the star had appeared. And he sent them to Bethlehem, saying, “Go and search diligently for the child, and when you have found him, bring me word, that I too may come and worship him.” After listening to the king, they went on their way. And behold, the star that they had seen when it rose went before them until it came to rest over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy. And going into the house they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him. Then, opening their treasures, they offered him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh. And being warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they departed to their own country by another way."
There's a lot to talk about in regards to this story.  First, it was a star that led the wise men to Jesus. God used their religion to bring them to the Savior.  I think there's a lot of power in that. God can use anyone,  anything, or situation to bring us to Him. God is bigger.
The wise men told King Herod, who was not at all pleased about this. See, many Jewish people of the day assumed when the Savior would be born, he'd be an earthly king, not a heavenly one. The last thing Herod wanted was someone to take his throne.  
When they found Jesus (which was actually not the night he was born, it was probably when he was a toddler; time isn't always noted when story of Jesus' birth is shared), the wise men fell down and worshiped him.  Although they had their original beliefs in magic and astrology, they were able to recognize the one true God and Savior.  I feel like this shows the power that God has to work in anyone's life. 
When they brought the gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Gold is a symbol of kingship on earth: Jesus. Frankincense is a symbol of deity: God on earth, and myrrh is a symbol of death: Jesus' death on the cross. I'm not sure the wise men knew the symbolism behind their gifts, but I'm sure God did, and I think that's pretty cool.
The wise men were changed because of Jesus, and I think that's why God chose them. It shows the power he has to move in everyone's lives. No matter where they are, what they've done, how they are living their lives, God can shine through and change them, and you for the better. 


On black Friday I picked up this camouflage sweater from Target for 40% off and I was super excited because I'd been wanting one, but couldn't seem to find what I wanted for a great price. I decided to pair it with my favorite black pants, boots and vest.  This combo has definitely a go-to one this season.




Vest: Wet Seal similar
Sweater: Merona same
Pants: Mossimo same
Necklace: Sira Mara similar
Boots: Born similar

Linking up with:

11 comments:

  1. I love how God used people who didn't even know Him to bring others to Christ. He still does this today(: You look lovely as always - love that sweater!!! Merry Christmas! Susan

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  2. I'd love to try camo, but haven't yet because I don't want to invest in something I am a little unsure of. That sweater is so cute though! I like how you glammed it up with your necklace!

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  3. I love this sweater! So cute & such a great price!

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  4. Cute, cute outfit! You make camo look great!

    It's so wonderful how God brought such a contrast of humble shepherds and great wise men. Jesus is for all!

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  5. Love the mix of camo and this vest, very cute!

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  6. What a great post! I love your camo! You inspired me to order a pair of camo leggings so that I can try out that trend!

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  7. Another great post Ginny! You look great in this outfit, I really the camo with the statement necklace.
    Marta
    www.sweatersstripesandsweets.com

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  8. This has been a great series where I have learned a lot. I am loving all the olive military going on here. I need some camo in my life. That is a gorgeous sweater and I also love the necklace.

    Enjoy the last week before XMas Ginny and Happy Holidays! <3 Ada.

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  9. I am so happy I can across your blog through the pleated poppy because I am in love with your blog name! Nothing sums up fashion better than, "My new FAVORITE outfit!" So cute and love your hunter green camo look!

    Chelsea
    Ginger Side of Life

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  10. You look great Ginny and thanks for reminding us that Christ is the reason for the season!!! Wishing you a Merry Christmas too!!!

    Rebecca
    www.redtagchiclosangeles.com

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