I am writing this article on December 21st, 2020. Looking back over 2020, it has been, well, a memorable year.
I heard Pastor Dana Coverstone call 2020 "The Dumpster Fire” Year. Yep. That sums it up. I mean, who started the fire? Is the fire department ever coming? All good questions. I do believe the fire department has been with us all along.
As I write, I think about the true meaning of Christmas. This year has allowed me to think about that even more than I have other times. We are celebrating the birth of our Savior and Lord, Jesus Christ. As John 3:16 states, "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but would have eternal life."God’s gift to this world is a huge reason to celebrate. Not only celebrate but shout it from the rooftops. No matter what happens on this earth, it is only temporary. We have heaven waiting, and it is eternal.
Still, reminders of the greatest gift of Love ever witnessed are always encouraging. So, if you’ve been looking for something to make you smile amid the 2020 chaos, here’s something:
The Star of Bethlehem is visible from December 21st to December 25th, 2020.
Technically, it isn’t actually a star, but It is the aligning of two planets: Jupiter and Saturn. The alignment of these two planets is a rare occurrence. It was last recorded in 1226 AD. And YOU, my friends, are here to witness it. I am reminded that 2000 years ago, a baby was born under such a star. And this event tells me that Jesus is not only still here. He is active.
Of all the years for this remarkable occurrence, 2020 is the one I’d choose. So many need hope and encouragement during these dark and uncertain days.
If you don’t quite have the Christmas Spirit, maybe walking outside, about 45 minutes after dark and looking to the Southwest sky will encourage you and remind you miracles happen all the time, and usually just when we need them.
Merry Christmas, my friends.