Written in the Stars

 

Daily Gratitude Year Eleven-Day 362- Today, I am grateful for what was written in the stars. 

Those who studied the stars knew the familiar patterns of the stars visible to the naked eye. A new star shows up. Brighter than all the others. What could it mean? 

The actual timing of all the events of the first chapters of the gospels telling of the birth of Jesus takes some figuring, knowledge of Jewish laws and customs, and putting the pieces together. Why are they even mentioned? 

 "Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the reign of King Herod. About that time some wise men[royal astrologers] from eastern lands arrived in Jerusalem, asking,  “Where is the newborn king of the Jews? We saw his star as it rose, and we have come to worship him.” -Matthew 2:1-2

This is one of those times I can only speculate the answer. If scripture is God-breathed... it is important. 

"All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, 17 so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work." -2 Timothy 3:16-17

This is what is abundantly clear from the passage. The wise men were seeking Him. They did not show up by accident. They recognized the new star as a sign and important. They responded to what they saw. They clarified their purpose: "We have come to worship him." Wow! 

They did not overlook the importance of the sign and the moment. They were not "too busy" to respond. 

I am sure you have seen the humorous quote that says, "If the wise men had been women they would have shown up early, cleaned the stable, brought a casserole, and given practical gifts." It is funny. 

This is what we know: They came. They saw. They brought gifts fit for a King and for the one who would become the sacrificial Lamb.

Gold: A gift fit for a King
Frankincense: An incense used in worship
Myrrh : A spice used at death, burial, and in mourning

Powerful stuff when  you put the pieces together. 

It is not the time or the place that is important. It is that they came with open hearts seeking and ready to worship the long awaited King. They didn't question the unexpected. They were seekers of truth. 

The praise song (not a "Christmas song" but it fits): "Here I am to worship, Here I am to bow down, Here I am to say that You're my God. Well, I'll never know how much it cost

To see my sin upon that cross, " (Hillsong) 

Written in the stars. Written on our hearts. Are you here to worship? 

Today, I am grateful for what was written in the stars.