What joy there must have been for the wise men when they left the presence of Herod. One, it is always a good feeling to leave the presence of those who know not God, who seek to defame His name. Secondly, to see what they were blessed to see when they left him. “they departed; and, lo, the star, which they saw in the east, went before them, till it came and stood over where the young child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy” (Matthew 1:9-10).

Notice please, they rejoiced with an exceeding great joy when they saw the star again. They were rejoicing before they ever came into the house and actually saw “the young child with Mary his mother…” (vs. 11). What a wonderful lesson for us to ascribe to; joyous anticipation of seeing and being in the presence of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Should we not also have a joyous anticipation as we approach the weekend and prepare to enter the House of God? Should we not seek this same wonderful spiritual feeling every day we live? How blessed and humbled they must have felt as they “fell down, and worshipped him:…” (vs. 11).

Please remember that all of God’s people will not have the same amount of joy this week. The holidays, no matter which one is being observed, also causes sadness as well as joy. Many of our families are no longer with us to share in our fellowship and companionship as they once did. Memories are both fond and painful. For this reason, pray for those who may not have what you have. And, if you are one of those who is hurting at this time of year, take heart. The Lord is on His throne, Jesus is still making intercession for His own.

We have a Star to follow. John shared these beautiful words in Revelation 22:16, “I Jesus have sent mine angel to testify unto you these things in the churches. I am the root and the offspring of David, and the bright and morning star.” Let us follow Him and be joyous in the midst of our pain and suffering. “Think About It!”