Reflection
The wise men came from the east: no mention of Kings, no mention of three. Its fascinating that they rejoiced with ‘exceedingly great joy’ in finding Mary, Joseph and the child in such poor circumstances. They trusted their star, they trusted that a king could be found in such a place, they offered their gifts. Truly, they were wise.
Have you ever been surprised to find wisdom in the most unlikely persons? Or found humility in the most high person or dignity in the most poor?
Today’s Prayer
Preparation: Begin by stilling; then dedicating the time of prayer to God and asking God that all you think, feel and imagine are for the glory of God.
Gift: Ask for what you desire. Suggestion: To know Jesus more clearly, love him more dearly, and follow him more nearly.
Setting: A Scripture reading that suits an Imaginative Contemplation
Scripture
Matthew 2:9-12 WEB
The wise men, having heard King Herod, went their way; and behold, the star, which they saw in the east, went before them until it came and stood over where the young child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceedingly great joy. They came into the house and saw the young child with Mary, his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him. Opening their treasures, they offered to him gifts: gold, frankincense, and myrrh.
Being warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they went back to their own country another way.
Conversation: Talk to Jesus in your own words as a friend
Final Prayer: End with a formal prayer such as the Lord’s Prayer/Our Father.
Today’s Music
Were I the wise men who came from afar. Suzanne Davis Harden