My dear friend, today we are meditating on the verse found in Matthew 2:10: “When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy.” We read about the shepherds who saw the star and were filled with joy. Why were they so overjoyed at the sight of a star? That star was a sign, a glorious sign that the Messiah had come. Why was the arrival of the Messiah so significant? For generations, the people of Israel had been held captive under various kingdoms. They were mistreated, enslaved, and burdened. Yet, the prophet Isaiah had foretold a message of hope, a prophecy declaring that a Saviour would come to set them free from their captivity.

For years, the people of Israel eagerly waited for this Messiah, and when the star appeared in the sky, it signalled that the long-awaited Deliverer had come. This was the cause of their great rejoicing, ‘someone had come to set them free, to deliver them, and to bring them hope.’ Today, as you have accepted Jesus as your Saviour, that star now shines brightly within you. God will use you to be a light, a guiding star for those around you, shining before people who are held captive by sin, depression, darkness, and hopelessness. Through you, God will lead them to the Messiah, the living God, who will deliver them from their burdens, heal their sickness, and bring light into their darkness.

Yes, my dear friend, God will make you shine brightly so that you point others to Jesus, the true Deliverer, the hope of all nations. This Christmas season, dedicate yourself to being that shining star, a beacon in the lives of those around you. Be like the star in the night sky, so radiant and unmistakable that it leads others to Jesus, the brightest and most shining star of all. He is our hope, our light in the darkness, and our source of everlasting joy. Will you pray and commit yourself to this mission during this Christmas season?

PRAYER: 
Dear Lord, I thank You for the gift of Jesus, my one and only Saviour, and the hope He brings to my life. Help me to shine brightly as a guiding star in the lives of those around me, leading them to Your love. Fill me with Your joy and purpose, and use me, Lord, to bring hope to those burdened by darkness and despair. Let my words and actions reflect Your love and truth during this Christmas season. Teach me to walk humbly, serving others as Your vessel of peace and deliverance. I dedicate myself to Your mission and pray for Your strength and guidance. In Jesus’ name, I pray,  Amen.