December 20, 2009: Born to Die – Michael Hidalgo

So often the story of The Magi (Three Wisemen, Three Kings) … is told around the idea of three men from the east, presumably occupying some place of power, wealth, and influence showing up and giving gifts to Jesus. Many point to this story as an act of worship, which it seemingly was, but there just might be more the story. 

 

Here we have an evil King (Herod), a newborn child who poses a threat (Jesus), and evil empire (Rome). This already sounds like a good story. Beyond this there are details in Matthew 2 about Egypt, the massacre of children, and a King who dies. It still sounds like a good story, but like one that has been told already. Another story with and evil King (Pharaoh), a newborn child who poses a threat (Moses), and an evil empire (Egypt).

 

Matthew skillfully employs specific words in his telling of Jesus’ birth and the visit of the Magi that bring the reader back to the events of the Exodus. In doing this he creates a political situation that brings to the forefront the words of Jesus’  mother, “He has brought down rulers from their thrones, but has lifted up the humble” (Luke 1.52). 

 

The Magi, with their message, “Where is the one who was born king of the Jews?” declare that this is indeed a great story, one that deserves retelling – for in it there is liberation for all who are in slavery. However, there is one detail about the Magi that tips the hand of the story. They bring myrhh. Myrhh had a primary purpose – it was used in the embalming process. The Magi bring something that is used for death in celebration of birth. 

 

This was not going to be a normal kind of revolution. This is one in which the new king says, “I will die for you.”