They, having heard the king, went their way; and behold, the star, which they saw in the east, went before them until it came and stood over where the young child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceedingly great joy.
–Matthew 2:9-10
Of all the surprises this world has seen, the star of Christmas was surely one of the most exciting.
Generations of learned men had studied the skies. Then suddenly, one night a sign came. The star Balaam prophesied shone (Numbers 24:17). The mighty king whom Daniel foretold was born (Daniel 7:13-14)! He had come!
With great anticipation, the magi set out on their long journey, traveling from Persia to Bethlehem.
They pressed their caravan onward, walking for miles, stopping briefly for sore feet and thirsty camels. They ate simple meals and slept in the elements for months.
And then, finally, they arrived. They knelt before the Promise Fulfilled, before the One the heavens had declared!
Who is this child whose birth was announced in the stars? Who is this child whom prophets declared a Great King hundreds of years before His birth? Do you know Him?
You, too, have traveled a long and tiring journey to the foot of the manager. What joy, what relief, what excitement there is at the end of a long journey at the sight of the goal when the light peeks around the bend. The labor, the blisters, the headaches, the sacrifice is over.
For a moment, stop and remember Him. Be in awe at His coming. Invigorate yourself with worship.
Prayer
Dear Jesus, You are, and will forever be, my king. Thank You for shining a light into this dark world. Thank You for saving me. Amen.
Reflection
What caused me to seek out Jesus for my life?