A Light in Heaven

Matthew 2: 1-2

“After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem 2 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.”

It is significant that the birth of Jesus occurred during the reign of a violent, corrupt, insecure, and paranoid tyrant who ruled Israel at the pleasure of Rome and not through the will of the people of Israel.  Herod would go to any length to protect his hold on power, including the murder of his sons and wives.

The people of Israel longed for the promised Messiah.  But the birth of Jesus was more than a local event or even a national event.  People of other countries were interested and informed of His birth, people who were aware of the prophecies and the signs of their fulfillment.

The wise men of the East were such people, willing to set out in search for the Messiah, to follow the star.  

And a light in heaven shone down upon the child who was the light of the world.

Come let us worship the King.

May the love of Christ be with you,

Rev. Eric Lanier (Retired)