After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem and asked, “Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.”
Matthew 2:1-2 NIV
Following the Star
You may have noticed that some Canadian houses have a large star hung on the outside. If you’re wondering why, one comment on Reddit says: “My Grandfather, from New Brunswick, explained to me that back in the day the colour of the star on the barn or house symbolized what the owners were offering to help travellers. Think back in the day with limited technology and harsh weather, travelling on long county roads. One colour meant they were welcome to sleep in the barn, another meant they could grab a meal there.”
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It always amazes me that the magi, who came from the East to meet Jesus, are included in the Christmas story. As we will see over the next few days, it is likely that Jesus was a young boy, living with his parents in a home in Bethlehem, by the time they arrived. We do know that the Lord drew them to Jesus using a star, something with which they would be familiar, being ancient astronomers. Matthew 2 tells us: “After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem and asked, ‘Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.’” If you are a follower of Jesus, God drew you to Him in a unique way. None of us have the same testimony of coming to know Jesus. Christmas is more than the arrival of Jesus, as wonderful as that was, and is. It is the drawing of people to Him, experiencing His life giving and life transforming love and grace.
These have been words from the heart.
Bob Beasley