Scripture:
“After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem and asked, ‘Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.’” — Matthew 2:1–2
Devotional:
The Magi weren’t from Israel. They weren’t raised knowing the promises of God or the prophecies of a Messiah. They came from far-off lands — from cultures that looked to the stars instead of the Scriptures.
And yet… God wrote them a message in the language they understood: light.
He met them where they were.
Long before they ever knelt before the Christ child, God was already drawing them in. Their journey began not with a command, but with an invitation — a light breaking through the darkness of their ordinary nights.
That’s the heart of the gospel: God comes for those who seem farthest away.
He speaks in ways we can recognize, through the moments that stir our hearts — a sunset, a song, a whisper of hope. He finds us in our searching and says, “Come closer.”
By the time the Magi arrived in Bethlehem, they had crossed deserts, endured silence, and ignored doubters. Yet every step of that long road was proof of one truth: God draws the distant near.
Maybe you feel far off today — unsure, unseen, or unworthy. But like the Magi, your distance doesn’t disqualify you. It might be the very space where God is already sending His light.
Application:
Where in your life do you feel far from God — in trust, in time, in heart? Ask Him to meet you there, to speak in a way you’ll recognize. And when He does, follow. Don’t worry about the distance — He’s already bridging it.
Prayer:
Jesus, thank You for coming after hearts that wander far. You are the light that breaks through my hesitation and draws me close. When I feel distant, remind me You’ve already come near. Teach me to follow Your light, step by step, until wonder finds me on my knees. Amen.
Family Advent Activities
1. Follow the Light
Turn off all the lights and guide your family through the house with one flashlight.
Take turns leading and following.
Talk about how the Magi followed the light God gave them — and how God still guides our hearts today through His Word and His Spirit.
2. World of Worship
Look up a map and point to places “far off.”
Talk about how God’s love reaches every land and every person.
Pray together for someone you know who may feel far from God right now — ask Him to draw them close.
Recipe Options:
1. “Far-Off Lands” Chickpea Stew
Ingredients:
2 cans chickpeas (drained & rinsed)
1 onion (chopped)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 red bell pepper (chopped)
1 can diced tomatoes
1 tsp cumin • 1 tsp paprika • ½ tsp cinnamon
1½ cups vegetable broth
Salt & pepper • Olive oil • Fresh parsley
Steps:
Heat olive oil in a pot. Sauté onion, garlic, and bell pepper for 3–4 minutes.
Add spices; stir until fragrant.
Add tomatoes, broth, and chickpeas. Simmer 20 minutes until thickened.
Top with parsley. Serve with rice or pita bread.
As you eat, talk about how the Magi traveled from distant lands — and how God’s love still calls people from every nation and neighborhood.
2. “Journey Mix” Snack Bags
Create a snack mix that symbolizes the road to Jesus:
Pretzels for the long road,
Golden raisins for the star,
Dried fruit for endurance,
Chocolate chips for moments of joy.
Eat together while reading Matthew 2:1–2 and thanking God for guiding every seeker who dares to follow.
