The Jesse Tree: Day 24
A STAR
As Christmas approaches, it can start to feel dim. After weeks of planning, decorating, and celebrating, the initial excitement often fades, leaving a quiet letdown before the holiday even arrives. In these moments, it can feel as though the light of Christmas has dimmed before it even reaches its brightest day. Many of us try to recapture that wonder through gifts, parties, or traditions. But these efforts are fleeting. The sparkle fades, the music ends, and the decorations are packed away, leaving us wondering if the joy was ever real.
The story of the magi offers a different picture. They saw a star at the birth of Jesus and followed it for likely two years before reaching Him (despite most nativity sets suggesting they arrived the night He was born). Through uncertainty, distance, and likely hardship, the star never dimmed. It remained a constant guide to the Joy of the World. Unlike our temporary efforts to capture Christmas cheer, God’s light does not fade. His guidance is faithful and unwavering.
It’s also easy to compare our Christmas experiences with the perfect scenes on screen; miraculous reunions, flawless celebrations, and magical moments. When our lives don’t measure up, disappointment can overshadow the season, making it feel as though Christmas has failed us.
When the magi finally arrived, they offered gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. These gifts weren’t just material, they acknowledged Jesus’ kingship, divinity, and ultimate purpose. They remind us that lasting joy is found not in perfection or spectacle, but in recognizing and honoring the true light entering our world. When we focus on giving to Jesus, rather than just receiving, Christmas becomes meaningful in a deep and enduring way.
Even our best spiritual intentions- attending services or singing carols can wane under the busyness of the season. Spiritual renewal can feel elusive amidst the hustle and demands of December. Yet the magi’s journey shows us that persistent faith and obedience, even when the destination is far away, brings us to Christ. Joy that lasts is found not in a single day but in following the star faithfully, keeping our eyes on God’s presence guiding us, even through the dim moments.
The story of the magi offers a different picture. They saw a star at the birth of Jesus and followed it for likely two years before reaching Him (despite most nativity sets suggesting they arrived the night He was born). Through uncertainty, distance, and likely hardship, the star never dimmed. It remained a constant guide to the Joy of the World. Unlike our temporary efforts to capture Christmas cheer, God’s light does not fade. His guidance is faithful and unwavering.
It’s also easy to compare our Christmas experiences with the perfect scenes on screen; miraculous reunions, flawless celebrations, and magical moments. When our lives don’t measure up, disappointment can overshadow the season, making it feel as though Christmas has failed us.
When the magi finally arrived, they offered gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. These gifts weren’t just material, they acknowledged Jesus’ kingship, divinity, and ultimate purpose. They remind us that lasting joy is found not in perfection or spectacle, but in recognizing and honoring the true light entering our world. When we focus on giving to Jesus, rather than just receiving, Christmas becomes meaningful in a deep and enduring way.
Even our best spiritual intentions- attending services or singing carols can wane under the busyness of the season. Spiritual renewal can feel elusive amidst the hustle and demands of December. Yet the magi’s journey shows us that persistent faith and obedience, even when the destination is far away, brings us to Christ. Joy that lasts is found not in a single day but in following the star faithfully, keeping our eyes on God’s presence guiding us, even through the dim moments.
Pause to reflect
In what ways might you be chasing fleeting joy this Christmas, instead of following the enduring light of Christ?
How can you intentionally focus on God’s guidance and presence to brighten the dim moments of your season?
How can you intentionally focus on God’s guidance and presence to brighten the dim moments of your season?
Lord, thank You for being our unchanging light. When the holidays feel dim or our joy fades, help us to keep our eyes on You. Like the magi, may we follow Your guidance faithfully, bringing our gifts of worship, gratitude, and obedience to You. Brighten our hearts with Your presence this season, so that Your joy can shine through us, not just in December, but throughout the year. Amen.
Posted in Jesse Tree
No Comments