The story of the magi leads to some basic questions. Why are these pagan astrologers from the east in Matthew’s Christmas story? And what motivated them to make the 900-mile trek from Babylon to see the birth of a Jewish King? What is going on with the star?

We use this story to work out three practical points. First, we are to discern but not to judge. While astrology is problematic, we cannot judge the hearts of the Magi. We can wrestle with what is right and wrong, but it is not our job to disparage others who do things that we would never do. Second, hunger for God’s activity like the Magi. They made that trip at great expense, giving up time and money to pursue truth. We have to ask ourselves if we are willing to count the cost to do likewise. Third, never let anything get in the way of love.