Matthew 2: 1-2 Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold; there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem, Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews: for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him. KJV

 

As most of my friends and family know, I love the holidays…. especially Christmas. I get nostalgic during Christmas. I love the music, the scents, crisp cool air, and the laughter of children.

 

Wonderful, lasting memories are made and preserved in our hearts, to be unwrapped and shared throughout the year. Stories are shared of Christmas past, and the greatest story ever told never grows old. In fact, it becomes like the star, ever brighter as I hear and relive the birth of the Savior, Jesus Christ.

 

On any given evening, I step out into the starry night, and my eyes are drawn to the eastern star. The star carries me back in time…. to another evening as shepherds watched their flocks at night. Possibly they gazed into the starlit night enjoying the peaceful moment, and marveled at its beauty.

 

Suddenly the angel appears to announce the birth of the Savior. Heavenly choirs burst forth in melodic celebration! The King is born, a Savior sent forth to redeem the world.

 

As the brilliance of the star glowed in the sky, wise men from the east, hastened to go worship the newborn King. Inquiring of Herod the king, caused an uproar that would set in motion events the world would never forget. Yet, Herod was unable to stop that which God had ordained to be. Christ was born, lived to share the good news of salvation, and fulfilled the holy scriptures.

 

This year, as I look upon the star, I will thank God for his beloved Son he so graciously gave to the world, his gift of love to all mankind. I will pray for peace on earth during this time of war, and for abiding peace for families and loved ones separated in body, yet not in spirit. I will pray that his star will shine in the darkness of the night illuminating the sky with its brilliance, reminding all who gaze upon it that Emmanuel is with them.

 

Let the daystar arise in your heart this Christmas, share the wonderful gift of Jesus with someone now and throughout the year.

 

May God richly bless you this holiday season, and may you and yours be filled with the spirit of our living God.

Merry Christmas!