We have learned in the story about the birth of Christ, that a star appeared to the wise men from the east. They came inquiring of Herod about the birth of the king of the Jews. Herod had no clue as to what they were talking about. (Matt 2:1-3). Herod, of course was afraid that his kingdom would be overthrown and the Jews would be able to rule.           

The star did not appear to any of the townspeople or even to Herod who had a whole group of his own astrologers, chief priest and scribes. There was no loud hue or cry made. You would think that with such a great light shinning, that all the townspeople would be awakened and everyone would be outside looking at this. If something like that would happen in our town we would be out trying to see what all the commotion was about. Herod insisted that the wise men continue on their journey and when they found the child, that they should send him word.      .

And when they had left Herod, the star continued to lead them until they came to where the child lay. (Matt 2:9) Then the star stopped and stood over the child. Matt 2:11 says that they rejoiced with exceeding great joy, they fell down and worshipped the child, giving Him the gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. It does not say how long they were there but I am sure they were in no hurry to leave the Christ child. God later warned them in a dream to take a different route home.  

To me this is a wonderful picture of salvation. To be able to see Christ, to know that this is what you have been seeking, giving God your all and to have God set your feet on a new road.  It certainly is a life changing event when we really see Christ!  

When God warned Joseph to take Mary and the child and flee from the wrath of Herod, they were able to use the gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh to help pay the way into Egypt and to take care of their needs. God certainly had the plan of salvation worked out for us. I am always amazed how God works things out, even to the smallest detail. 

I would hope that we would all be able to keep the star, Christ Jesus in our lives. To be able to follow it and to have it shine brighter and brighter even until the perfect day. For where Christ is; there is light. John 8;12 " Than spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world; he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness but have the light of life."  PRAISE GOD!!! 

Oh Beautiful Star of Bethlehem
Shining afar through shadows dim
Giving the light for those who long have gone
Guiding the wise men on their way
Unto the place where Jesus lay
Oh Beautiful Star of Bethlehem shine on.

Oh Beautiful Star of Bethlehem (Star of Bethlehem)
Shine upon us until the glory dawns.
Give us a light to guide the way
Unto the land of perfect day
Oh Beautiful Star of Bethlehem, shine on (shine on)

Oh Beautiful Star the hope of light
Guiding the pilgrims through the night
Over the mountains till the break of dawn
Into the light of perfect day
It will give out a lovely ray
Oh Beautiful Star of Bethlehem shine on (shine on)

Oh Beautiful Star the hope of rest
For the redeemed the good and blessed
Yonder in glory when the crown is won
Jesus is now the star divine
Brighter and brighter he will shine
Oh Beautiful Star of Bethlehem shine on (shine on)

- Submitted by Sis Judy