The Risen Star

The "Christ" in "Christmas"

"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" Matthew 2:2.

Jesus is the reason, purpose, highlight..."star" of the season. He is the "Christ" who is the focal point of Christmas. Traditionally, Christmas commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ, and although considered a Christian holiday, it is widely celebrated by many non-Christians also, and some of its popular celebratory customs have pre-Christian or secular themes and origins. The Christmas holiday we celebrate today is indicative of Christianity's willingness to absorb the world's customs and traditions, and at times lessens its simple roots in the historical reality of Christ. Christmas should be a wonderful reminder of Christ's humble birth that set the stage for the power, glory, and salvation that would be revealed in His life, death, burial, and resurrection! We should use every opportunity to reflect on Jesus Christ and His message of hope for us all.

The Star of Bethlehem, also called the Christmas Star, revealed the birth of Jesus to the wise men, and later led them to Bethlehem where Jesus had been born. How true the statement is "Wise men...follow Jesus!" Known as the "Star Prophecy," the star is viewed as a miraculous sign to mark the birth of the Christ as a fulfillment of an Old Testament prophetic promise of a Savior for this world. In this star's role, we see a pattern that has been consistently portrayed, which was to point people to Jesus and draw them to Him.

As the Day Star rises in our hearts, let's declare Jesus to a lost and dying world. Especially during this holiday season, because among those who are excited about family, friends, and festivity, there also are those who are lost, lonely, hurting, despondent, suicidal, impoverished, etc., and we must be as good Samaritans and pray for and minister to them and others with various needs. Be a shining light to them, reflecting from Jesus, the "Sun of Righteousness," who also is the "Bright and Morning Star." As like John the Baptist, we too should bare witness to Jesus, the Source of Light. John's purpose in one sense was to proclaim (point to) and bring focus to Jesus to help direct people to Him. (John 1:1-18). Certainly, the star of Bethlehem did its job in bringing people to Jesus. This guiding star was a supernatural sign from God, testifying to the divine event taking place.

Let's truly recognize the sole purpose of Christ's birth and glorify Him in the highest in worship! Pray that souls everywhere will genuinely celebrate the true meaning of Christmas and draw closer to Christ during this holiday season as they acknowledge His birth. God told Abraham that He would "multiply his seed as the 'stars' of the heaven...his seed would possess the gate of his enemies...and through his seed all the nations of the earth would be blessed (Genesis 22:17, 26:4). Daniel 12:3 says "they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the 'stars' for ever and ever." Reach for the Star...and reach for the stars! Jesus is the Star that shines through us, and as we follow Him and encourage others to become followers likewise, then many will shine in Heaven as stars.

Jesus was born, died, and is "Risen," and He is our "Star." Satan is a "fallen star" (Rev. 12:4, Isaiah 14:12-15) Jesus is the "Risen Star" (Rev. 22:16, Mark 16:6). So, where is your hope? In your star search, you will not find it looking towards the sky of this world, but you will find it as you look towards Heaven. So, don't wish upon "a falling star," but hope upon "the Risen Star," and that is...Jesus, who is "the Christ" in "Christmas!"

Flo Shaw

International Coordinator

World Network of Prayer