December 10 - from Michael

Sometimes we, like the shepherds, are simply surprised and overwhelmed by grace; at other times we are prepared when it arrives, like Simeon.  But of all the participants in the first Christmas, it was the wise men who reached beyond their circumstances, and I don't doubt their effort and experience while seeking Christ had an effect on the experience of finding him.

Here are some other thoughts:

• The Wise Men were evidence that Christ would be Messiah not only to the Jews, but for the whole world (which surprised most of the Jews that heard of them).  2 Nephi 29:7 "Know ye not that there are more nations than one?  Know ye not that I, the Lord your God, have created all men, and that I remember those who are upon the isles of the sea; and that I rule in the heavens above and in the earth beneath; and I bring forth my word unto the children of men, yea, even upon all the nations of the earth?"

• To the wise men, the star was an unmistakeable sign from God and gave them valuable information, but the unbelieving Jews didn't recognize the star even after they were told about it.  So it will be with signs preceding Christ's 2nd Coming.  D&C 35:8 "For I am God, and mine arm is not shortened; and I will show miracles, signs, and wonders, unto all those who believe on my name."

• The posterity of Lehi recognized the star, from the prophet Samuel's teaching.  But for lack of faith, the Jews had been 400 years without a prophet, until God sent John to preach repentance & prepare people for Christ's ministry.  Amos 3:7 "Surely the Lord GOD will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets."

Often there is much more left unsaid behind the events recounted in the Bible.  For example, it's fun to think when reading the gospels, "who told this part of the story to Luke or Matthew?", or "why was this important to include, while other details were omitted?"  The wise men are one instance where the back story seems particularly tantalizing: in part because little is known, but also because of what is clear--these were men of strong, motivating faith.  They had likely been watching, waiting for years--and traveled many months (perhaps nearly two years) to Bethlehem.  They were true seekers.  Ether 12:41"And now, I would commend you to seek this Jesus of whom the prophets and apostles have written, that the grace of God the Father, and also the Lord Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost, which beareth record of them, may be and abide in you forever.  Amen."