Christmas Lights

Scripture:

Matthew 2:1-12(ESV)

Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the east came to Jerusalem, saying, “Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.” When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him; and assembling all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Christ was to be born. They told him, “In Bethlehem of Judea, for so it is written by the prophet:

“‘And you, O Bethlehem, in the land of Judah,
    are by no means least among the rulers of Judah;
for from you shall come a ruler
    who will shepherd my people Israel.’”

Then Herod summoned the wise men secretly and ascertained from them what time the star had appeared. And he sent them to Bethlehem, saying, “Go and search diligently for the child, and when you have found him, bring me word, that I too may come and worship him.” After listening to the king, they went on their way. And behold, the star that they had seen when it rose went before them until it came to rest over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy. And going into the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him. Then, opening their treasures, they offered him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh. And being warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they departed to their own country by another way.

Devotional:

I know I have said it before, but Christmas is my favorite time of year.  I just love the lights and decorations.  Growing up I always wished for white Christmases.  I love the soft crunch as you walk on freshly fallen snow.  I love how things seem a bit quieter than normal.  Everything seems so peaceful during a good snowfall.  I remember one time when I was a kid my best friend slept over.  During the night it started to snow.  At about three in the morning we snuck outside to play in the snow as it fell.  We watched it fall through the lights shining outside.  Being kids we just had fun running around and playing in it.

When Jesus was born something was seen that was much better than snow falling.  A star appeared over Bethlehem.  This star guided the wisemen to baby Jesus.  Well we really do not know how old Jesus was when they appeared.  But the first Christmas light was shinning bright for all to see.  I wonder how many people wondered at a new star shinning in the sky.  How many people sought to find out what it was or why?  How many visitors did Jesus receive?

What about today?  How many people celebrate Jesus’s birthday?  How many people will pause in wonder or reflect on why we celebrate.  It is too easy to get caught up in all the hustle and bustle going on around us.  We can also let our fears get in the way.  I do encourage us to slow down some and reflect on the real meaning behind our celebrations.  When you see the lights think about that first Christmas light shinning high in the sky.    Let us be like the wisemen and follow the star that will lead us to Jesus.  Look at the lights and decorations and let your thoughts focus on Him.  Let us remember the real meaning for Christmas.  Then share it with someone…