Knowing vs. Going

Growing Daily

Knowing vs. Going

Last weekend I put away my Christmas decorations. As I wrapped up the wise men, I paused—like I do every year—and wondered if I should leave them out a little longer. After all, the Magi probably didn’t arrive until weeks, or even months, after Jesus’ birth.

It’s interesting that when these sincere seekers arrived in Jerusalem asking where to find Jesus, they encountered people who knew Scripture and could pinpoint Bethlehem (Matthew 2:4–6). And yet, as far as we know, none of these experts went to Bethlehem along with the wise men. No one made sure they got there or joined them on their quest to worship the newborn King.

It makes me examine my own heart toward people I meet who are seeking answers. Do I offer information that is correct, but hurried, without walking with them toward Jesus?

Jesus calls us not merely to speak truth, but to make disciples (Matthew 28:19).  In Acts 8, when an Ethiopian traveler struggled to understand Scripture, Philip didn’t offer a quick explanation and send him on his way—he got right in the man’s chariot and explained the passage as they rode along together (vs 30–35). Paul reminds believers that “…we shared with you not only God’s Good News but our own lives, too” (1 Thessalonians 2:8).

So maybe I should leave the wise men out a little longer this year. They remind me that seekers are still on the road—and God invites me to walk with them.

- Catherine Reid