Star of Bethlehem
“Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the reign of King Herod. About that time some wise men 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 (NLT)
Years ago, this Bible verse was the inspiration for a most unusual painting—I thought of the Magi from the East, and all the Greek, Roman, and Jewish cultures colliding in that part of the world where Jesus was born. And so, I painted this image of a Greek urn, and I included the familiar domed buildings and towers of the city of Bethlehem.
There at the top, the three wisemen from the east come on their camels, following the star. Do you see it up there in the sky? The “shine” on the vase is really the star! I wanted the tail of the star to go right through the manger, like a brilliant spotlight. And I know that you and I both long for Jesus Christ to be the spotlight of our holiday season.
“I am the light of the world,” said Jesus in John 8:12 (NIV). But our Savior doesn’t leave it at that. He calls us his lights in the world, and says, “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16). It’s what our dark world needs right now. So, join me in spotlighting our Savior this Christmas!
Jesus, thank you that I can celebrate your birth this season because of what you’ve done for me, and who I am in you. No matter what else crowds my experience or demands my attention, I want to shine the light of your love this Christmas.
Why Should We Love the Return of Christ?
Pastor John Piper joins the podcast to share a hopeful vision for the second coming of Jesus. Hear how anticipating the return of Christ can help people who are suffering with hardship and disability today, plus the importance of cultivating a deep love for the Savior as we await his return.
