December 18, 2024

The star, which they had seen in the east, went on before them until it came and stood over the place where the Child was. (Matthew 2:9, nasb)

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What was the star that led the wise men to Jesus? Since Matthew didn’t say, Christians have speculated. Some believe it was one particular star that God illuminated in a unique way. Others believe the Christmas star was what we now refer to as a planet or perhaps a conjunction of two or more planets. Perhaps it was a special light that God created for this special purpose, or it may have been a manifestation of the presence of God Himself—the Shekinah. Another possibility is that it was an angel (compare Job 38:7).

The Greek word angelos (“angel”) means “messenger.” Certainly the Christmas star was a messenger from God that led the wise men to Jesus, regardless of whether or not the star was an angel. And because of this, we can identify with the Christmas star.

Every Christian has come to Jesus because of a messenger whom God sent to provide guidance. In my case, it was a gentleman named Mr. Mount who filled the pulpit in my home church as a visiting preacher one Sunday and, in his message, pointed me to Jesus. Who, like the Christmas star, captured your attention and led you to Jesus?

Having found the Babe of Bethlehem to be the King of kings, we have the privilege of playing the role of the Christmas star to others. We, too, can capture the attention of those whom God has called to “come worship the King.” We, too, should stand over where the Christ Child is so that others can find Him. We can be true angels, messengers from God, to those who presently sit in darkness. May we, whom God has called to be lights in the world, be Christmas stars to many who are seeking Jesus this holiday season.

 

Dr. Thomas L. Constable
Senior Professor Emeritus of Bible Exposition