MAT 2:1-2 tells us that when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea -- wise men came from the east to Jerusalem, Saying, "Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him." The Old Testament prophesies clearly reveal the anxiety of their time -- waiting for the promise of the coming Messiah -- Who would be the New Born King of Israel.

HAG 2:7 tells us of this prophesy where the Lord says, "And I will shake all nations, and the desire of all nations shall come: and I will fill this house with glory, saith the LORD of hosts." The first prophesy that prompted this desire of all nations began in the curse God placed upon the serpent when sin entered into the world. The Lord said, "I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel," GEN 3:15. 

This kingdom of Christ entering the heart is the nature of a kingdom that God's true children were looking for -- David asked "Who shall ascend into the hill of the LORD? or who shall stand in his holy place? He that hath clean hands, and a pure heart; who hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully. He shall receive the blessing from the LORD, and righteousness from the God of his salvation," PSA 24:3-5.

It is in the darkest time of day that the light begins to appear upon the horizon-- and so it was when the Day Star appeared. The prophesy that the Lord would "shake all nations, and the desire of all nations shall come" HAG 2:7, included the very chosen nation who were living in anticipation of an earthly kingdom. MAT 2:3-4 says, "When Herod the king had heard these things, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him."

Even though they had the Scriptures, and knew the exact place where the Messiah was to be born-- these religious leaders did not have enough interest to go that short distance to seek for the promised Messiah -- However, the lesson of our text does not have a sad ending! Those who truly seek Jesus shall find Him.

Jesus said in, LUK 11:9-10 "And I say unto you, Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened." Amen.

See amid the winter's snow,
Born for us on earth below,
See the tender Lamb appears,
Promised from eternal years.

Teach, O teach us, Holy Child,
By Thy face so meek and mild,
Teach us to Resemble Thee,
In Thy sweet humility.

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Conrad MT 59425
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