Outdoor Truths

A star. I think of all the things God could have used to guide the first worshipers to Jesus, He chose a star. Not some man-made innovation. Not a person or prophet. Not even a voice. But a star. Loud in its light, but quiet in its announcement.

Unlike the shepherds who were not looking for the angel, the wise men were always looking to the stars. They believed within the sky, divine messages could be seen and interpreted. Evidently, they were right. This particular star led these men to its creator and their Messiah. I am of the opinion that nothing just happens. That while I may not understand many things, they all are part of a unique puzzle that would be incomplete without each piece.

I believe the same about the birth of Jesus. I believe mangers, shepherds, and stars all mattered then, and they matter now. And while there may be plenty of nuanced theology around each, there is also simple truths. For the star, it is purely a confirmation of what God has always chosen to do – to speak to us through creation, and for creation to lead us to Him. What the wise men understood in their wisdom, is that while creation is a work of art, it is not the author of its own beauty.

No person ever viewed a masterpiece without being amazed at the gift of the artist. No sane individual would ever assume any sculpture brought itself into existence. No, the beautiful star of Bethlehem was there to bring its travelers to the beautiful Creator and Star of the world. And for what it’s worth. While the angels proclaimed the message of the Messiah to Jewish shepherds, the star made sure those outside the Jewish circle could have access to the Messiah as well. Without this, we would be singing Joy to the Jews, and not Joy to the World. Yes, that’s what creation does.

Then and now. It points us to the artist. The Messiah. The One to be worshipped. Not because He needs our accolades, but because we too are wise men. Wise enough to recognize Who the child really is. Wise enough to recognize a Creator. Wise enough to recognize the Messiah. And that’s what worship really is. And today, creation still points to God, and God still speaks through creation to lead us to Him.

Gary Miller

gary@outdoortruths.org

Gary Miller has written Outdoor Truths articles for 21 years.

He has also written five books which include compilations of his articles and a father/son devotional. He also speaks at wild-game dinners and men’s events for churches and associations. Stay updated on Outdoor Truths each week by subscribing at Outdoortruths.org