LEST we forget, the Star of Christmas is Jesus the Christ, the Word of God who spoke the world into existence, who became flesh to redeem humanity from the curse of sin, which is eternal death or hell. The account in Matthew 2: 1-12 should teach us important lessons in the context of the end of the world and Christ’s second coming.

1. Gentile astrologers from the East followed a star, which led them to the new born Messiah. Jesus is the bright and morning star that we should intimately follow to be ready when He comes.

2. The star disappeared when the magi thought it wise to consult with King Herod, a move that resulted in the deaths of Jewish male children under the age of two. Keep focused on Jesus and do not deviate from doing God’s will.

3. God’s chosen people who knew everything to know about their coming Messiah, were not ready when He appeared. Likewise today, by mid-November, the world and Christians look forward to Christmas, but how many will be ready to meet Him when He comes in the clouds of heaven?

4. The magi found the star again after leaving King Herod’s palace which led them to where Jesus was born.

If we know about Jesus but do not have an intimate relationship with Him as our Lord and Saviour, He will come into our lives if we accept Him by faith and be ready to see Him.

5. Lastly the magi gave gifts to the baby Jesus as they worshipped Him. This Christmas we will give gifts to our loved ones and enjoy a feast, but what gift does the Star of Christmas expect of us?

The words of a gospel song sung by the Kings Heralds comes to mind: “Lord I have no wealth to give, riches have I none, but to You my heart I bring, Lord I give you me.”

Happy Christmas Fiji and may God richly bless our beloved nation in 2016.