MESSAGES FOR CHRISTMAS

Friday

The Message of the Star – Matthew 2:9-12

9 And they, having heard the king, went their way; and lo, the star, which they saw in the east, went before them, till it came and stood over where the young child was.

10 And when they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy.

11 And they came into the house and saw the young child with Mary his mother; and they fell down and worshipped him; and opening their treasures they offered unto him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh.

12 And being warned of God in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed into their own country another way.

 

EXAMPLE

In 1981, a Minnesota radio station reported a story about a stolen car in California. Police were staging an intense search for the vehicle and the driver, even to the point of placing announcements on local radio stations to contact the thief. On the front seat of the stolen car sat a box of crackers that, unknown to the thief, were laced with poison. The car owner had intended to use the crackers as rat bait. Now the police and the owner of the VW Bug were more interested in apprehending the thief to save his life than to recover the car. So often when we run from God, we feel it is to escape his punishment. But what we are actually doing is eluding his rescue.

– Unknown

 

LESSON

The wise men saw the star and set out to find the King of the Jews and worship Him. Eventually the star led them to the Christ child. They worshiped Him and brought Him their gifts. This wondrous star was the great sign that God used to bring these wise men to Christ. There is a message in that star for you and me today.

The star speaks to us of God’s guidance. He does not leave us here on the earth to wander about in spiritual darkness. God, instead, is a great director! He seeks to direct our lives. His guidance is as real and obvious as the wondrous star that led the Magi. He still seeks to guide us today, but He uses a different method.

Today God uses His Word. It is a lamp unto our feet and a light to our paths. God has a desire for us to know His perfect will. As you celebrate Christmas this year, think about the message of the star. Think about how God led these men right to the Son of God. Then think about how God desires to lead you!

1. Read Matthew 2:1-2. Why would they (the Magi) want to follow the star and find the King of the Jews?
2. According to Matthew 2:9-12, How did the wise men act when they saw the star? Explain all that happened when they found Jesus.
3. Does your journey towards God resemble that of the Magi?
4. Are you seeking His will through His word?