It may have been a tad difficult to drag me away from the market stall with the Christmas stars. I was mesmerized by the vibrant colors and beautiful patterns with light streaming through. A favorite was the star with light shining through angel silhouettes (pictured below). We were spending time at Christmas markets in Europe, something that has been on my wishlist for the last few years. These stars were so reminiscent of those from childhood memories of Christmasses spent in India. They're almost my favorite Christmas decor item. In the era before Christmas got commercialized, if you had a star hanging in your window or front porch, everyone knew you celebrated Christmas.
On the way back from wandering around the markets, enjoying all the festive decor, handmade ornaments and food and beverages, I thought about why I was drawn especially to the stars. I’m sure most are familiar with the Biblical account of the star that appeared in the sky to direct the Magi to the place where Jesus was born.
“Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We have seen his star when it rose and have come to worship him.” (Matt 2:2) Like the Magi in Matthew’s account, are we too actively seeking and pursuing the Light of the world who came down to bring us freedom and restore us as sons and daughters of the King? Are we eagerly searching the scriptures and spending time in his presence to discover MORE of him so that we can can bow down and worship him afresh?
“When they saw the star, they were overjoyed” or “they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy.” (Matt 2: 10) The Greek word used here “echaresan” meaning to rejoice and “charan” meaning joy, delight. Are we too overjoyed when we encounter more of him?
“And, having been warned in a dream not to go back to Herod, they returned to their country by another route.” (Matt 2: 12). Like the Magi, are we too following close for guidance, so that we can pay attention to warnings and change course if directed?
This Christmas, let’s enjoy the markets, the carols, the feasting and time with loved ones as we celebrate His Coming. And, most of all, like the Magi, let’s be on that journey to continue seeking and following closely so we may gaze upon the beauty of the bright, Morning Star (Rev 22:16). The bright, Morning Star who says to us “‘Yes, I am coming soon.” Amen. Come, Lord Jesus.” (Rev 22:20)
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