Daily Advent Devotions from Church Street UMC
Saturday, December 25, Evening
By Sarah Elliott
The Star Was Bright
Read Matthew 2:10
“When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy.”
Growing up, my mother taught me to appreciate the stars. Some of my favorite constellations are the big dipper, the little dipper, and Orion. Easily identifiable, Orion is most vibrantly seen in the winter months. A reminder that with winter we get to enjoy Christmas, and the celebration of the greatest gift given to us by God when he sent his son into the world.
I remember in 1986, my mom woke me up to see Halley’s Comet. Seeing something in the sky and knowing it wasn’t going to be seen by anyone else for another 76 years seemed really special to me. How special would it have been for the Magi to see the Star of Bethlehem? I can only imagine it! They saw a star and they followed it. Knowing it was special, they followed it to find the king of the Jews. When they arrived, they bowed down and worshiped him. They followed a star and met a King!
Weather lore says, “Cold is the night, when the stars shine bright.” On a crisp, clear night look at the stars and consider what it would have been like to see the Star of Bethlehem. How exceedingly great would it feel to be one of the first to know the King of Kings had arrived?
Prayer
Dear God, Thank you for sending the star that led the Magi to you. Their presentation of fine gifts to your son is a reminder of just how powerful your gift to us truly is. Lead us to him this season, so we are reminded each day of how special your gift of Jesus’ birth is.
