(Matthew 2) The Magi who came to see Jesus shortly after His birth could be an example to us in several ways as we begin a New Year.

* They traveled a great distance together & faced many dangers & perils together.  I’m sure they had each other’s backs and spent a great deal of time talking about life.  In other words; they did life together and can easily be seen as fore-runners of Life Groups.  Takeaway: Begin this new year in the company of a Life Group.

* They pursued Jesus even though they knew little about Him.  They knew He was a special King, but wanted to know more so they spent time, talent and treasure to find Him and get into His presence.  Takeaway: Do whatever it takes to pursue Jesus and get into His presence.

* They gave worth to Him – they attributed value to Him – in worship.  They bowed humbly before Him as symbol of their submission to Him as Lord & King.  Takeaway: Real Worship isn’t just singing songs or coming to church, even though that is a part of worship.  Real Worship has to do with the surrender of our life to Christ as Lord & King on a daily basis, so that what we do (or sing) on Sunday is a reflection of the way we live each day of the week.

* They gave their very best gifts to Him; they were generous.  This was a tangible way to demonstrate His value and worth as their King.  They gave the best of what they had to Him, not their leftovers.  Takeaway: Give generously to the Cause/Purpose of Christ through your Church this year.  Honor Him as Lord & King with the first fruits of what you make.