WE HAVE SEEN HIS STAR!

 

Monday, December 21, 2020

 

WE HAVE SEEN HIS STAR!

 

Matt 2:1-2

2 Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem,

2 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

 

           This evening an extremely rare planetary conjunction — dubbed the “Christmas star” — is set to appear, something that hasn’t occurred for nearly 800 years. The event is coincidentally happening on Dec. 21 — the first official day of winter, known as the winter solstice. This is also the shortest day and darkest night of the year. Jupiter and Saturn will be so close together as to appear as a single point of light in the southwestern sky. Could this be the Bethlehem Star?

 

           A close investigation of the Greek text reveals little that is not already known about Bethlehem’s star. The “Wise Men” were magoi or oriental scientists. Is it possible that these star gazers were influenced by Daniel of the Old Testament? It is not beyond the possibility. They recognized the night anomaly as a sign of the birth of the “King of the Jews.” This King or basileus, sovereign, was worthy of “worship.”  The Greek for worship is proskuneo which indicates a bowing of the knee and can actually indicate the action of a dog licking his master’s hand. This was not a political journey but a pilgrimage of faith.

 

           We know Jesus is returning! We know this because He said He would. It is tempting to find a parallel in tonight’s star. The symbolism is certainly interesting as it happens on the darkest day of a terrible year. Political intrigue, a breathless waiting, the continued murder of the unborn, and an atmosphere of anger only adds to the speculation. Could Jesus return tonight?

 

           Our response to all this should be the same as the magoi. We should take note that something is about to happen. We should understand that Christ is sovereign and worthy of worship. We should look up and be prepared.

 

Luke 21:25

25 And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity.

28 And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh. KJV

 

Dear Lord, we know you are coming soon. We don’t know how soon. Help us to be prepared and ready. AMEN