Read the transcript from today's video devotional.
Have you ever started a journey without knowing exactly where you were going, but something deep inside told you to keep moving forward anyway? That's exactly what happened to some wise men from eastern lands during King Herod's reign. They showed up in Jerusalem with one burning question: where is the newborn king of the Jews?
Most of us know this story from Matthew chapter 2, verses 9 through 11, but let's dive deeper into what happened next: "After this interview, the wise men went their way. And the star they had seen in the east guided them to Bethlehem. It went ahead of them and stopped over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they were filled with joy! They entered the house and saw the child with His mother, Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped Him. Then they opened their treasure chests and gave Him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh."
Incredible Persistence
Think about their incredible persistence. They could have easily dismissed the star as some cosmic coincidence. When the journey got treacherous, they could have turned back. After meeting with Herod, who pretended to be interested but was actually harboring murderous intent, the wise men didn't abandon their quest. They kept following that star. They pressed on. They were convinced this sign was worth pursuing.
The star they faithfully followed led them to the exact place where Jesus was. When they saw that guiding light finally settle over the house, joy flooded their hearts. Can you imagine their relief, their excitement? All those miles traveled, obstacles overcome, and doubts conquered were worth it for this single moment.
The Journey Culminates in Worship
But notice something important. Their journey didn't end with just finding Jesus. It culminated in worship. The wise men understood something profound that we sometimes miss. The purpose of following God's signs isn't just to satisfy our curiosity or validate our faith. It's to worship Him.
So here's my question for you: What signs is God showing you right now that require this kind of persistent pursuit? Maybe it's a calling you've been hesitant to follow, a prompting to step into a new season of faith. Perhaps it's a nudge toward reconciliation with someone, or toward generosity, or deeper prayer. You know what it is.
Obstacles That Tempt Us to Quit
Like those wise men, we face obstacles that tempt us to quit pursuing God's leading. The journey feels too long. Others question our direction. Circumstances seem to contradict what we thought God was showing us. But here's what I've learned: Persistence in following God's signs leads to encounter, and encounter leads to worship, and worship leads to joy.
What might change if you truly believed that persistence in following God's signs leads to this kind of joy? Would you be more willing to take that step of faith? More patient during seasons when God seems quiet?
Joy Reserved for Those Who Seek
As our Advent journey nears its end, remember this: The joy of finding Jesus is reserved for those who persistently seek Him. The wise men's overwhelming delight reminds us that persistence in following God's leading always leads to joy—maybe not immediately, but in the fullness of time. Jesus Christ is born. He is the source of joy that makes every step of faithful pursuit worthwhile.