God's diverse ways

This week as I pondered on the message of Matthew chapter 2, my thoughts turn towards the diversity of God's ways.

From the Magi (led by God) who journeyed far just to come to the presence of the Lord to worship Him. No doubt they were men of great standing in the ancient world to be received by Herod himself but their purpose was worship.

To Joseph and Mary, who in their quiet and humble lives were entrusted with the glorious and enormous task of bringing up Jesus into adulthood.

Then there was John, who prepared the way for the Lord's ministry destined to end up in prison and beheaded, but praised by the Lord.

Then there were Simeon and Anna etc.

The Lord showed that He had fulfilled His promises. He did not need men's co-ordination or planning. He uses faithful men and women, in their particular corners to weave the tapestry of his testimony.

I think one of the mistakes we often make is to impose on God, insisting that He must work according to the way that He has worked in our lives or in our church. God can and do use many diverse ways to accomplish His purpose.