Bow Down and Worship

     On coming to the house, they saw the child with his
     mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped
     him. They they opened their treasures and presented
     him with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.
                                              (Matthew 2:11)

The wise men made a long journey to find Jesus, and when they arrived they bowed down and worshiped him. The first thing they did was to bow down and worship him. Imagine the unlikely, meager surroundings: Jesus’ tiny form; no ceremony or fanfare; no guards, no royal advisors, no caregivers other than his parents; a helpless child who had spoken no words and performed no miracles. Yet the Lord moved in their hearts and gave them eyes to see that this baby was the Light of the world, the Savior of mankind. They worshiped him not for what he could do but for who he was.

So much of life is veiled in mystery. There is much we do not understand, yet continually we strive for meaning, understanding, and knowledge. We cannot know the mind of God or hope to understand everything God does. But when we ask for eyes to see, God will show us evidence everywhere. We will see God in the most unlikely people and places.

When we open our eyes and hearts to God and trust God’s goodness, we also can see the evidence of God working in us and through us. As Scripture says, “It is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose” (Philippians 2:13). As we see God’s goodness and strive to know God more, do God’s will, and follow the plans God has for us, we can say, like Mary, “I am the Lord’s servant. Let it be with me just as you have said” (Luke 1:38 CEB). We can humble our hearts and bow before Jesus in awe of who he is–“the alpha and the omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end” (Revelation 22:13 CEB).

God sent God’s only Son to earth so that we can know God and be in relationship with God. God is leading us daily in ways we do not recognize or understand. God wants to be found by us–whether for the first time or in a deeper way. God never gives up on us, and God will never leave us (Deuteronomy 31:6). Do you know this God who moved heaven and earth to be with you? Do you feel God’s presence in your life? Hear God’s words today and run to God, bowing down in worship: “I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with unfailing kindness” (Jeremiah 31:3).

Prayer Focus:
What signs are pointing you to God this Advent” In what areas of your life do you need to acknowledge God’s lordship and leading? Where are you holding back in pride, convinced that you have a better plan? What would it mean for you to bow and worship God?

From Rob Renfroe and Ed Robb, “The Wonder of Christmas: Devotions for the Season”