Jesus - The Morning Star

Thursday, July 23

Read: Matthew 2: 1-7

Verse: "... I am the Root and the Offspring of David, and the bright Morning Star." - Revelation 22:16

History records that a new star did appear in the time preceding Christ's birth. The Bible tells us that Christ is the Morning Star. Peter refers to Jesus as the Day Star. (II Peter 1:19). Even in the Old Testament the coming Messiah was called a star. (Numbers 24:17).

What is the morning star and how does it picture Jesus Christ? The morning star shines brightly at the end of the night and at the beginning of the day. It is the first and the last. It shines brightly in the ebony of night like a diamond on black velvet. Jesus is the Morning Star.

He appeared at a dark time in world history giving light to the world. He said, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." (John 8:12). He still shines in the hearts of people. To call a man "morning star" was to classify him among heroes.

Jesus is the King of kings, Lord of lords, Teacher of teachers. He is the Savior of all mankind. The morning star was a symbol of hope. Jesus is our hope (I Timothy 1:1). The morning star was a symbol of joy. It is radiant and beautiful. Jesus is the altogether lovely One. Joy is found in Him. (John 15:11).

The morning star is also a symbol of direction and guidance. Sailors used it to check their course by its position. Jesus gives direction to our life. (Psalm 48:14).

Dear friends, as the morning star is the first one that captures our eyes in the morning, let Jesus be the first One to grab our attention every morning, before we begin attending to other things.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for Your Son Jesus Christ who is the Morning Star. He is the Savior and Hero of my life. He gives me hope, joy and direction in my spiritual journey. Without Him I would be nothing. I bow down before Him in adoration. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.