For thousands of years humans have used the stars to guide us. With the stars showing the way, brave men and women have crossed great oceans, spanned vast continents, and found a path through desert wastelands. If they just kept their eyes on the stars they never had to fear getting lost.
At the time of Jesus’ birth a star rose in the east. Recognizing its significance the magi immediately set off on their quest to find “he that is born king of Jews” (Matthew 2:2 KJV). Crossing vast deserts, enduring the bitter cold of night and the scorching heat of day, they journeyed onward, ever keeping their eyes on the star.
Finally the star stopped over a humble dwelling on the outskirts of Bethlehem and it says, “When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy.” (Matthew 2:10). Going into the house, “they saw the child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshiped him.” (v. 11).
In our day and age it is sometimes difficult to see the stars. What with air pollution and the bright lights streaming from our cities, we often can barely see the sky, let alone follow the stars. Besides most of us are too busy being busy, to stop and gaze at the heavens.
Yet, if we will just stop for a moment and open our eyes, we will see there is still a Star to guide us. He was the one the Magi sought so long ago. He is “the root and the offspring of David, and the bright and morning star.” (Revelation 22:16). If we will just keep our eyes on Him we need never fear being lost.
This Christmas Eve, stop for a moment in your hectic last minute rush and look for the Star. Seek Him, “while he may be found…” (Isaiah 55:6). And when you have found Him fall down and worship Him, rejoicing “with exceeding great joy.”
This morning, let the bright beams of Jesus’ love penetrate the darkest reaches of your soul and fill your mind with “peace, good will toward men.” (Luke 2:14). Open your heart to His leading and fix your eyes on His face.
Don’t wander through life any longer! This Christmas, follow the Star!