To Worship Him

If you attended a Christmas pageant at some time over the last few weeks, the wise men probably showed up on stage before the shepherds had left. In fact, the wise men almost certainly didn’t make it to Bethlehem for quite a while. Not only had the shepherds gone back to their fields, but the folks who took all the rooms in all the inns in town had returned to their homes, as well. So when they arrived—whether it was a couple of weeks or a couple of years after Jesus’ birth; the wise men found Joseph and Mary and the baby in a house—not a stable.

Although it is interesting to consider when and where they found the Christ child, what is more important to note is what they did when and where they found him: they worshiped him. They told Herod that was the purpose of their trip. “We have come to worship him” (Matthew 2:2). There is wisdom in seeking the newborn king, but those who are truly wise worship him.

As you move into a new year let me encourage you to renew your commitment to worship the Christ. Admit that there are many things that keep God from being the first priority in your life. Ask God to help you recognize and resist those things that lead you away from him.

Acknowledge that God—the One who has revealed himself to you as Creator, Redeemer, and Sustainer—is the only God, and the only One worthy to set the agenda for your life. God loves you and gave Jesus as the only way and means of coming to him. If you have any reservations about accepting Christ, lay them aside. The only merit any believer has is the righteousness of Christ.

Realize that a life of worship will not be easy. Jesus warns his followers of opposition, ridicule and suffering. He also assures them that the lessons he has taught them will lead them to a life filled with love and joy.

That’s what I pray for you in this new year: a life filled with love and joy.