Matthew 2:10

Following Stars

We usually think of the Christmas star as one bright, consistent presence leading the wise men from their home in the East to the cradle of Jesus, but this is probably not so. Far more likely, they saw the "star" two different times.

The first time the star is mentioned (Matthew 2:2) the wise men refer to it in the past tense. They had seen the star while still in their homeland and knowing it significance set out by faith for the country indicated by its presence. Since they had only general directions, they went to the most logical place one would expect to find a baby king-the palace in the capitol city.

Imagine their shock to find no one knew what they were talking about! King Herod was mystified. King? What new king? The whole city was suddenly thrown on high alert (Matthew 2:3). No one knew how to manage the crisis situation. Only after consulting his religious advisers could Herod give them even a hint of where they might search next. He told them the prophets said the king would be born in Bethlehem but warned them finding the child would be difficult (Matthew 2:7-8).

Even wise men might get a little bewildered by such an experience. Though we are not told their exact mood as they walked away from the palace, it could not have been positive. Bethlehem was well to the South. The town teamed with people and commerce-and hundreds of babies. If the current king and all his advisers didn't know exactly which child was the chosen one, how were they to find out?

That was the moment the star reappeared (Matthew 2:9). No wonder we are told they rejoiced "with exceeding great joy." The civic and religious leaders had been almost no help but no matter. Now they had this bright, shining object-a "star"-hanging low in the sky. It was so low, that when they moved toward it, the star moved, too (Matthew 2:9). Keeping pace with them step by step the "star" moved until it finally stopped exactly above the very house where the young child, Jesus, and His mother were going about their daily routine.

Jesus called himself the Bright and Morning Star (Revelation 22:16) and, whatever else the title may imply, it certainly includes His ability to guide. Sometimes that guidance feels distant and only gives general directions. Other times, clarity and certainty mark the exact steps we are to take.

But in either situation may we be like the wise men as we move forward by faith and never took their eyes of the source of their guidance. The Star that guides us is not impartial or celestial. He is personal, compassionate and never failing. Because of him, we, too, can rejoice with exceeding great joy!