Following the Star

“I, Jesus, have sent my angel to give you this testimony for the churches. I am the Root and the Offspring of David, and the bright Morning Star.”
Revelation 22:16 (NIV)

‘You are such a star – thank you!’ my friend exclaimed in gratitude.  For a nanosecond she gave me the status of celebrity.  This phenomenon was a 20^th century creation, as before that stars were solely heavenly bodies—creations that last a lot longer than the modern simile.

The magi from the east knew the Hebrew Scriptures. Numbers 24:17 says “I see him, but not now; I behold him, but not near. A star will come out of Jacob; a sceptre will rise out of Israel…”  They recognised the star sent specifically to guide them to the child Jesus, thus avoiding Herod’s deceit and murderous heart. They followed it in faith and trust, and were rewarded in their destination. (Matthew 2:2)

Today a popular adage is ‘follow your star’ with the implication being that we follow our destiny.  Following one’s star often involves striving toward an ambition, aspiration or dream, which of itself is harmless and admirable, but sometimes the fulfilment is at the expense of others and when this is so then the cost is too high.

Christians have a star to follow—Jesus Christ. Just as He instructed the disciples to follow Him, we are commanded to do the same.  “’Come, follow me,’ Jesus said, ‘and I will send you out to fish for people.’” (Matthew 4:19)  We are to spread the gospel far and wide, giving hope to a darkened world.  Jesus is the bright Morning Star spoken of in  Revelation 22:16. We need to follow the bright Morning Star sent to guide us toward giving light to the world.  “Look, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to each person according to what they have done.’ (Revelation 22:12) If we follow, we too will be rewarded at our destination.

Prayer
Thank you, Jesus, for being the bright Morning Star that gives the world salvation. Help us to follow you in the service of others and the spreading of your word.
Amen

Study by Irene Wilson

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About the Author:
Irene Wilson is a Deaconess in the Watford Congregation of the Worldwide Church of God UK, where she also serves on the Pastoral Council.

Local Congregation:
Worldwide Church of God Watford
St. Peter’s Church
61 Westfield Avenue
Watford,
Herts. WD24 7HF

Meeting Time:
Saturday 11AM

Local Congregational Contact:
George Henderson
Phone:  01923-855570
Email: george-sue.henderson@tesco.net