TWO events stand out at the dawn of the first Christmas. One is the visit of the Wisemen and the other the adoration of the shepherds. The Wisemen came from a far country, bearing precious gifts. The shepherds were tending their flocks in the vicinity of Bethlehem. From far and near men came to worship at the cradle of Christianity.
The Wisemen were versed in the knowledge of the East. They were said to be students of the astronomical science of that remote period. They were learned searchers for truth, and there are many today in all ranks of society and in many professional occupations who could be placed in a similar category. In the visit of the Wisemen to Bethlehem we trace the leading of divine Love, for the honest investigator, whether physical scientist, astronomer, or religionist, if in search of truth, will sooner or later be led to the truth he is seeking.
The Wisemen, although versed in the knowledge of the East, did not attempt to impose their knowledge on Joseph and Mary. Humility was a bright jewel in their crown of wisdom. Matthew, in the Gospel narrative, thus relates the incident (2:10, 11): "When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy. And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh."
