What Can We Learn from The Magi?

Who were the Magi? Where exactly did they come from? What was the timeline of their arrival? Their departure? I’ll bet I’m not the only one with questions. After all, the Catholic church has a fascinating history, one filled with intrigue, wisdom, and a bit of adventure.

So the first place I started exploring is Catholic Answers where I found some interesting gems that included an encyclopedia entry, some magazine articles, and a video where Trent Horn shares the fruits of his research. Nonetheless, the first source that I came across mentions that the Magi may have been a class of priests from Persia who studied the skies and pondered the meaning of dreams. Although their religion was thought to be “that of Zoroaster,” they possibly would have been familiar with the prophecies that foretold the coming of the Messiah, considering that the Hebrew population that still resided in Babylon and possibly Persia after their exile. Regardless, the overall angst that existed throughout the Roman Empire pointed toward the hope for the arrival of a “king” who would deliver his people from their oppressors. 

Given the political and social climate of the time and any knowledge the Magi had about the prophets, I still couldn't help but also wonder about their mindset once they reached their destination. Were they surprised at what they found? Either way, we know from Matthew’s Gospel that they found “the child with Mary his mother” and “offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh” after joyfully paying him homage. Most likely, they also gave Him their hearts. After all, they did not honor Herod’s request for information about where the child could be found but instead, “departed for their country by another way” after “having been warned in a dream” (Matthew 2:11-12). 

Does that whole scenario seem somewhat familiar? Centuries ago, there was still a sense of hope and anticipation coming from various directions for folks who were searching for something bigger than what this world could ever offer. The leaders of that time, be it in Persia or in the Roman Empire, were not passing muster. The different philosophies and the “omens” sought after by the dominating culture of that era offered little reassurance, much less direction. However, the promise of a Messiah, the “Wonder-Counselor, God-Hero, Father Forever, Prince of Peace,” struck a chord with those who were waiting for the King of Kings (Isaiah 9:5). 

Like the Magi, we are also on a journey towards the Savior but this time, waiting for His second arrival while seeking His guidance, strength, and inspiration. Like the wise men from the east, who acted on a divine warning instead of following a king’s request, we sometimes find ourselves in a predicament where we could either give in to the lures of the modern day Herods, or we can act on God’s call and do the right thing–because it is simply the right thing. 

I imagine that their first encounter with Jesus was just the beginning of a wondrous, spiritual journey. For us, the story of the Magi can serve as a reminder to be wise and seek what is above and that Christ came to redeem us all and show us His Way.