By Paul Negrete
The nativity story in the second chapters of the Gospels of Matthew and Luke captivates me, particularly the encounters with Christ as a baby involving various characters such as the shepherds, Herod, priests, Mary, Joseph, Simeon, Ana, and, my favorite, the magi.
The magi, a unique class of nobility and academics, sought truth through conversations, reading diverse holy and scientific texts, and observing nature. Notably, they stumbled upon the Book of Numbers chapter 24, where Balaam prophesied about a star and a scepter rising from Jacob.
Convinced of the Truth, the magi, guided by an anomalous celestial event, discover Jesus—recognizing the nobility of the Eternal One in the guise of poverty. They bow down, worship the infant, and become followers of the Messiah.
Interestingly, despite knowledge of Jesus’ birth, only a select few, including the magi, shepherds, Simeon, and Ana, found Him. The reason is simple: those who found Jesus actively sought Him. Seeking the Messiah led to discovery, emphasizing Jesus’ desire to be found by all. The Holy Spirit eagerly reveals Jesus to those genuinely seeking Him.
Even when not actively seeking Jesus, He desires to be found. Jesus continually yearns to be acknowledged in our lives, knocking at the door of our hearts. Some may perceive Him as an odd stranger interrupting their routine, but the truth is that Jesus desires recognition.
Today, people still search for Jesus, seeking truth. It is our privilege to reveal Him to others, akin to the angels informing the shepherds and the magi following the light to find Christ. We are part of the ongoing nativity story, encountering Jesus in various roles.
Jesus promised to return, and the signs are evident to all but recognized by a few. The Kingship of Jesus often clashes with self-rulership, making some hesitant to acknowledge the evidence of His imminent return.
Nevertheless, there are those still seeking Jesus, and we, as members of the Rocky Mountain Conference (RMC) and of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, are called to proclaim the Gospel message in our communities. Reflect on your role in this narrative, and let God use you to reveal Him to others.
—Paul Negrete is the RMC Department of Education associate superintendent. Drawing by Wonderlane on Flickr.
