The theme of darkness and light is one that runs throughout the Bible, and especially in relation to the promises of the Lord Jesus' birth and coming. So we find in Isaiah 60, the same theme again, this time with its global significance shining out clearly.
As the world lies in darkness, Isaiah prophecies that the glory of the LORD will rise and shine upon Israel, the shining light in the dark world. The light will attract all sorts of people:
Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD has risen upon you. For behold, darkness shall cover the earth, and thick darkness the peoples; but the LORD will arise upon you, and his glory will be seen upon you. And nations shall come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your rising. (Isaiah 60:1-3)
It may be these verses that lead some to portray the magi / wise men who came to see Jesus as 'we three kings of Orient are' - especially when verse 6 goes on to say 'A multitude of camels shall cover you, the young camels of Midian and Ephah; all those from Sheba shall come. They shall bring gold and frankincense, and shall bring good news, the praises of the LORD.'
Even if the magi were not kings, there's no doubt that many kings (and queens) have been drawn to the light of Jesus over the years. Queen Victoria hoped that the Lord Jesus would return in her lifetime so that she could lay down the crown of her empire at Jesus' feet. O glory of the Lord, come.
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