The Bright Star of Bethlehem
By David Wijaya, Indonesia
The night when Jesus Christ was born, a star was shining brightly in the sky. The Bible recorded that during the rule of King Herod, Magi from the East (also known as Wise Men) came to Jerusalem seeking baby Jesus because they saw His star as it rose (Matthew 2:2).
Surely on that night, many stars were shining in the sky. However, only one star caught their attention: the star of Bethlehem. Why was this so? Probably because that was the brightest star. Why then was it shining so brightly? Well, a couple of reasons have been proposed. Some have said that there was a star (nova) explosion that resulted in the bright light. Others have said that the “special star” was linked to the constellation alignments (track star or any celestial bodies in the same cluster) of Jupiter and Venus that occurred in 4-3 bc. There was also suggestion that it was not a star, but the planet Venus that was shining unusually bright.
No one can give a definite explanation. But most certainly, this star had only one purpose—to proclaim the birth of Jesus Christ. These wise men saw from afar and understood its cryptic message. With that, they decided to go and find the baby Jesus to worship Him.
This historical event contains many interesting things for us to ponder. First, Jesus Christ is the Star whom we should continually seek, worship and glorify in our lives. Second, the bright star of Bethlehem guided seekers to Jesus. Similarly may we “live clean, innocent lives as children of God, shining like bright lights in a world full of crooked and perverse people” (Philippians 2:15) so that others may be led to the Lord Jesus Christ. Apostle Paul gave two specific directives on how we can shine for Jesus:
1) Do everything without complaining and arguing, so that no one can criticize you (vv.14-15)
2) Hold firmly to the word of life (v.16)
As we celebrate Christmas this season, let us resolve to be like the bright star of Bethlehem that points the lost world to Jesus Christ.
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Magi from the East (also known as Wise Men) came to Jerusalem seeking baby Jesus because they saw His star as it rose (Matthew 2:2).
Wasn’t it funny that the Magi has the wisdom and insight that someone not something has happened at the other side of the world. The preparations of the things they brought along showed someone great was born. God might have given them the understanding and provided them an unmistakable sign.
I think Christmas was world-renowned then as much as today. The city got to know and few privilege groups got to celebrate (Magi and the shepherds besides the angels). Let’s focus on the person who deserve our attention and not on traditions of giving and receiving alone.
What is the source of the drawing of the star? Is there an artist name or website?
Hi Tony!
We got the picture from a free stock photo site
Thanks for the reply. Any idea which site? I am using the same image in another context and I like to give credit to original sources whenever possible.
No prob! It’s http://www.sxc.hu. Hope this helps!