Deep Longing - Vital Necessity

You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. Jeremiah 29:13

One small verse, only 15 words, and yet one with such a powerful promise. As I continue my journey with the Wise Men toward Bethlehem, this meshes in so well with them and their part in God's promise.

Most scholars believe that the mysterious men from the East did not actually arrive until Jesus was somewhere between one and two years of age. This is supported by many references in the scriptural narrative surrounding Christ's birth. It is truly remarkable that they journeyed for months, possibly longer, to find Jesus. I think we can safely surmise that these men were really seeking Him with their whole hearts. To put that much time and effort and money into such a long and tedious journey took great desire. They REALLY wanted to find this King.

I like the depth of this verse in the Amplified Bible:

Then [with a deep longing] you will seek Me and require Me [as a vital necessity] and [you will] find Me when you search for Me with all your heart.

I can't help but think that this embodies the Wise Men in their quest. Can you imagine travelling for months on end? On foot, or possibly on the back of a camel? The back of a camel! Oh my aching...well, you get the idea. If these men, who came from a different culture and belief system, put so much effort into finding and honoring and worshipping Jesus, then shouldn't I be just as passionate and diligent? In fact, shouldn't I be more so? Deep longing...vital necessity...this is the hallmark of seeking Jesus with one's whole heart.

Take a Five Minute Walk

Take a little walk outside today and think about the passionate commitment the Wise Men had in seeking out Jesus. Ask God to birth in you that same passionate commitment to Him!

May we dedicate ourselves in 2023 to seeking him with the tenacity and whole-heartedness of the Magi.