A Star, A Star, Dancing in the Night...

"When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy." Matthew 2:11 ESV

Yesterday was December 21st and many were a buzz about the "Star of Bethlehem" being seen for the first time since 1226. As I thought about this "star" and whether the world would look at the night sky. I love watching the stars in general, without a special astrological event. I can tell the difference between a star and a planet, and love that I can see them - even here in the light polluted Metro Phoenix area.

As I went about my day yesterday, I was reminded of this astrological event on social media and other outlets. I went out to put dinner out on the grill and spotted Jupiter and Saturn in the sky. It wasnt the majestic event it was hyped up to be but it was evident this was something special. As the evening wore on, I got my self ready to take my evening bicycle ride. The sky was clear and I could see "the star", as well as the others in the sky. Jamming to my music, I notice people were out and about, looking up. I had put "the star" out of my mind and so I wondered what they were looking at...Well, duh! <insert forehead slap here>.

He determines the number of the stars;

he gives to all of them their names.

Psalm 147:4 ESV

I saw families gathered looking up, witnessed couples laying in the grass, and children being shown stars through telescopes. It made me think - all these people were out witnessing this event and maybe for the first time ever being told what it signified. "The star" was the example, the evidence of a God who came to be flesh and dwell with His creation. It made me think of how this was a testament to Emmanuel - God with us. He reminded me that He is with us, came for us, died for us. God is absolutely in love with His children and "the star" was just a reminder.

Jesus had entered the world and would experience what it was like to be human. "The star" should also be an encouragement that He knows what it's like to be one of us . Jesus knew hunger, hurt, joy, and laughter - "The star" reminded me of that. As we get closer to Christmas, "the star" is only part of the story. Reminding me of a young lady who trusted her God. A man who trusted His God that the girl he was to marry was a vessel of something greater than themselves. Shepherds who were given the news of great joy to see the newborn King. The Wisemen, who followed a star that was linked to a prophesy about a Messiah. Be encouraged by those who trusted in the news that Star brought and continues to bring today.

Merry Christmas and

Warrior On!