Is the great conjunction predicted to happen December 21, 2020, actually The Christmas Star that guided the wise men to Jesus? Whether it is or not I'm going to do my best to see this celestial alignment of Jupiter and Saturn. They have not appeared at this degree of alignment since 1226, nearly eight hundred years ago. Still, answering the question is actually a matter of conjecture. The scientific community has explored historical records about the great conjunction and have offered opinion about it being The Bethlehem Star. It's been written about, projected on screens, depicted in the world of the media elite, examined in classrooms, and pondered in pulpits around the nation. The stark truth remains. There are no eyewitnesses or verbatim records of what happened that night near Bethlehem. Well, there is one.
My Christian worldview affirms the authority and infallibility of the Bible. Disciple and Gospel author Matthew was inspired to write a very detailed account of that night. Please take a few minutes to read these words----
Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the east came to Jerusalem, saying, “Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.” When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him; and assembling all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Christ was to be born. They told him, “In Bethlehem of Judea, for so it is written by the prophet: “‘And you, O Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for from you shall come a ruler who will shepherd my people Israel.’” Then Herod summoned the wise men secretly and ascertained from them what time the star had appeared. And he sent them to Bethlehem, saying, “Go and search diligently for the child, and when you have found him, bring me word, that I too may come and worship him.” After listening to the king, they went on their way. And behold, the star that they had seen when it rose went before them until it came to rest over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy. And going into the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him. Then, opening their treasures, they offered him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh. And being warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they departed to their own country by another way.
Matthew 2: 1-12, ESV
This Christian worldview also affirms the Sovereignty and omnipotence of Yahweh. Our God could have arranged the planets, stars, and the entire universe to give direction to the wise men seeking Jesus. That bright heavenly light led those wise men to him. And, after all the exploration that's where The Christmas Star leads us in 2020.
The Apostle Paul wrote, "Finally, my brothers, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you is no trouble to me and is safe for you" (Philippians 3: 1, ESV). So, finally, let The Christmas Star lead you to Jesus.
Have a safe and blessed Christmas!
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