Overjoyed by the Star
- Ronald J. Chewning
- Dec 3
- 2 min read
In Matthew 2, we read about the Visit of the Magi. Following the star, inquiring at the king's palace, informed by the priests where to find the Child, they trudged with determination to Bethlehem, bringing with them the gifts they planned to present as they worshiped Him.
"When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. On coming to the house, they saw the child with His mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped Him. Then they opened their treasures and presented Him with gifts of gold and of incense and of myrrh" (Matthew 2:10-11).
What did the Wise Men from the East know about this Baby or His family? Not much. Yet they came in faith, bringing gifts with them to honor Him. How far did they travel? How long was their trip? We can surmise, but what's important to know is that, for them, the trip with all its drudgery was worth it. "They were overjoyed."
How long a trip are we prepared to make this Christmas to worship the Christ Child? Are we willing to put up with inconvenience and sacrifice in order that we might come before Him with our gifts, offering them in faith, as the Wise Men did?
What causes our joy this Christmas season? Is it seeing the eyes of little children light up when they open their presents? That's good. Is it finding exactly the right gift for someone special? That's good, too. But are we "overjoyed" when we see the star? Contrary to the messages we hear in the commercials and even the seasonal songs, the only thing Christmas is about is the birth of Jesus, the Savior of the world.
Along with doing all the wonderful things that are good to do at this time of the year, including the visiting of sick and the shut-in, the baking of goodies for food banks, the sharing of financial resources with those in need, and all the shopping and caroling and everything else, let's find our joy in seeing the star. That star points us to Jesus and leads us to the Cross. Let us "open our treasures" and worship Him with our best and most precious gifts as the Wise Men did.
Ronald J. Chewning
12 Months of Congregational Stewardship