Did you know that the Bible does not specify how many Magi went to seek baby Jesus? Tradition tells us that there were three simply because of the gifts they offered him: Gold, Frankincense and Myrrh. But that does not prove there were only three travelers. Some eastern traditions say there were anywhere from two to eight and some churches still affirm that there were 12. And did you know that their names and the idea they were kings is also part of a tradition?
Today I will use another traditional story to convey some practical and biblical truths. It is based on the movie "The Fourth Wise Man" starring Martin Sheen. The movie is actually based on the classic The Story of the Other Wise Man by Henry van Dyke. It is a fictional story about a Wise Man (Artaban) who sees a sign in the heavens that he believes will take him to the Messiah. Artaban has three items of great value to offer the Messiah when he finds him, but is forced to use them in order to help people in need. Thus, Artaban is left with nothing to offer the new born King. The story ends as Artaban, old and dying, finally meets Jesus.
Figuratively speaking I believe there are two types of Artabans in this life; the secular and the spiritual. The secular Artabans live searching for true love, peace and hope in all the places and pleasures of this world without finding them. They waste their time, talents and treasures trying to find happiness on material things, but to no avail. Secular Artabans seek to feel good about themselves by helping others, but their motives are selfish. They feel empty unless they announce to the world how much "good” they have done. The Bible tells us to do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above ourselves (Philippians 2:3).
Find out what's happening in Belleville-Nutleyfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
On the other hand, the spiritual Artabans recognize that true love, peace and hope are found only through faith in the person of Jesus Christ. They invest their time, treasures and talents in the kingdom of God and its purposes, which produce a happiness and fulfillment like no other. They help those in need with genuine love and compassion and fail not to give God all the glory.
The three costly gifts Artaban wants to give the Messiah are a Sapphire, a Ruby and a Pearl. Do you possess something of great value that means a lot to you? Is it a gift from a loved one? Say, a porcelain figurine, a China set that has been passed down for generations, a ring, a watch or other jewelry? Tell me, would you be willing to give it to Jesus as a gift if he came to visited you on Christmas day?
Find out what's happening in Belleville-Nutleyfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Now tell me this, would you be willing to sell it and use the money to help an ex-convict, drug addict or homeless person back to recovery? There is NOTHING in this world of greater value that we can offer God than our hearts; a heart full of love for him and compassion for those in need. The two greatest commandments given to Christians are to Love God above all things and to love our neighbor as ourselves (Matthew 22:38,39). The bible says that TRUE religion is to help widows and orphans in their needs (James 1:27). If you do not love others as much as yourself you do not know God because God is love (1 John 4:8).
When Artaban finally meets Jesus he tells him that he had gifts for him, but now he has nothing to offer. Jesus responds by telling him that he has given him something more valuable than any gifts. He says, “For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in.” (Matthew 25:35)
Artaban asks Jesus when he ever did that to which Jesus replies, “As you did it to one of my brethren you did unto me.” (Matthew 25:40)
This season, in the midst of all the shopping, eating and decorating, let us not forget the true meaning of why we celebrate Christmas. It is a time not only to remember Jesus’ birth, but a time to rededicate our lives to him. Let us give Jesus the best birthday gift ever, a life dedicated to honoring him and helping those in need.
We will never know how many Magi visited Jesus, but the story of the Fourth Wise Man is a reminder that we are all like one of the travelers who sought after the Messiah. In search for the One who gave his life to give meaning to ours and offer us eternal life (John 3:16). Have a very Merry and blessed Christmas!
