Journeys to Jerusalem

J. G. Bellett
The journey of the wise men from the east (Matt. 2), and the journey of the queen of the south (2 Chron. 9) shine with something of kindred beauty and significance before us. All of them go to Jerusalem, but the wise men of the east began their journey under the sign or preaching of the star. The queen of the south began her journey simply on the ground of a report which had reached her in the distant land.
At times the Lord has visited and guided His elect by signs, visible tokens, dreams, voices, angelic visits, and such like. At other times He has simply caused them to hear a report, as in the case of this illustrious lady. But let Him address us as He may, faith recognizes His voice. "My sheep hear My voice... and they follow Me.”
The wise men went to worship, and took offerings with them. The queen of the south went to inquire at wisdom's gate, and to learn lessons of God, searching for that which was more precious than gold or rubies. She took with her some of the choicest treasures of her kingdom.
The journey of the wise men is rich in illustrations of the life of faith. Jerusalem did not satisfy them. In the earlier journey of the queen of the south, Jerusalem answered all expectations. In it we may find some striking moral characteristics which carry several helpful and significant admonitions to our own souls.