The Gift of ChristmasSample

The Presence of The Star

The Bible says that the heavens and earth declare the glory of God.  I think most believers agree with this. However, something about creation makes almost everyone say, "WOW!" 

For some, it may be a grand mountain-scape on the horizon. For others, the bright blue of the crashing waves in an ocean or the endless combinations of colors that paint the trees in autumn. But, for many, it's the splendor and multitude of the stars in the night sky. The countless flickering lights are seen from such a great distance. The size, the heat, and the number of them are overwhelming to consider.

There was one star that was different from all the others. It was the star that guided the Magi to Jesus. This star's story is quite remarkable. It starts with the men called Magi. They were "from the east," most likely from Persia. These men were known as kings and wise men, and the term Magi indicates both were likely true. They were men of great learning who rose to positions of authority because of their great wisdom.

These Magi noticed a new and different star in their night sky. There was something different about that particular star, and they believed it signaled the arrival of a great king. They decided to follow the star as they thought it would lead them to this great king.

The star led them eventually to where the baby Jesus was, and the Magi worshipped Him and offered Him gifts. They would have certainly not been impressed with Mary, Joseph, Jesus, or their surroundings. Nothing indicated a royal presence. There was no throne, regal attire, palace, or servants. 

They were a humble family in humble surroundings. Yet, the Magi did not hesitate to acknowledge the baby Jesus as a King worthy of their adoration. They bowed before Him and offered Him costly gifts.  All of this was based on the star.

The star was the source of guidance for the Magi. It was "a light, shining in the darkness." It was not only shown in the darkness of the night sky but was a light of the revelation that revealed the truth of who Jesus was and is. Jesus is the King that other kings bow before and worship. Some will do that willingly, recognizing who He is, while others will do it under the compulsion of His authority as they stand before His judgment one day.

Even today, the star still speaks to us. It is a reminder that we have a presence with us that guides us and reveals God's truth to us. It is no longer a star in the sky but the Holy Spirit who has been given to dwell within us. He is "The Spirit of Truth, that guides us into all truth." He is our "counselor," who is there to illuminate our minds and spirits. He lights the way for us to walk securely. 

Just as the star was a remarkable presence for the Magi, guiding their every step, so now we are guided by the Holy Spirit Himself. Proverbs 3:5-6 says it well, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding, but in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your path."