The wise men spoken of in the Nativity Story were most likely magi from Persia (present day Iran and Iraq)–which is to the east of Bethlehem. The magi were Zoroastrian priests. Magi is the plural Greek term for the Persian word for priest, magus. As part of their religion, the priests paid particular attention to the stars and practiced astrology. While the number of wise men is not named, the popular tradition is that there were three– one for each of the three gifts given. Early believers reinterpreted the description of the wise men in light of the Old Testament prophecies that show the Messiah being worshipped by kings (Isaiah 60:3, Psalm 72:10, Psalm 68:29). And they elevated the magi to kingly status. Hence, …

I’ve heard and read many different scenarios that explain the Christmas Star. According to some, it was a comet. According to others, it was a conjunction or gathering of planets in close proximity. And others have said that the star was a supernova, an exploding star. Historical records don’t list a comet or supernova in the possible years of Christ’s birth, which has been calculated to be around 5-7 B.C., to occur before the death of King Herod in 4 B.C. And while there was a conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn in 6 B.C., it would have been a small conjunction and not that unusual. More than that, …

Another telling moment in Mary’s life is how she responds to the shepherds, when the shepherds— who have been told by the angel where to find the Christ child— arrive on the scene. The shepherds tell their tale to Mary and Joseph. And once again, I love the insight into Mary’s thoughts. As it says, “And all who heard it wondered at what the shepherds told them. But Mary treasured up all these things, pondering them in her heart” (Luke 2: 17-19 ESV). I think Mary knew at that point better than most what this child meant for the world.