“Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, 2 saying, “Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we have seen His star in the East and have come to worship Him.” 3 When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him. 4 And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people together, he inquired of them where the Christ was to be born. 5 So they said to him, “In Bethlehem of Judea, for thus it is written by the prophet:
6 ‘But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, Are not the least among the rulers of Judah; For out of you shall come a Ruler Who will shepherd My people Israel.’
7 Then Herod, when he had secretly called the wise men, determined from them what time the star appeared.” Matthew 2:1-7 NKJV
God of signs and wonders,
You created the heavens. created the laws of quantum physics, astrology and all the other ‘ologies’. You are the creator, only you could make the sun stand still for a day and go backwards for a time (Joshua 10:12-14 and 2 Kings 20:8-11). You did not just make it all but are Lord of all. We thank You that our World, our history is not some random theory but has reason and purpose.
This star seen in the East was unusual, a new sign in the sky. These wise men (not kings?) read it and discerned that a unique sovereign birth was due. I suppose asking the local King was sensible and Herod was the nearest. Herod was not surprised – but troubled? A king? A threat! Herod’s Priest’s search Scripture and gave directions to Bethlehem.(Micah 5:2). Delaying the wise men till after Jesus was born. But you helped keep the birth place hidden.
Thank You for the times when we have seen signs and heard from You. Times we can look back and be assured how involved You were and are in our lives. When we were going through a tough patch or when the enemy attacks our peace, and You redirected us and hold us in Your care.
As the saying goes: ‘wise men (and women) still seek him’. Thank You, as we seek You, we find You have been there all the time.
In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Suggestions for prayer . . .
God of signs and wonders,
For all our family, friends and neighbours. We pray for signs of Your love to meet their needs..
For churches as they prepare advent services and carol services for those who will come at this season. Hearts be open to receive You.
For all those who have gone before sharing Jesus thank You. For the generations yet to be born to get to know You in all Your fulness.
For our Government, that it might open and honest and focus on serving the people of this nation,
For King Charles, the Queen and their families at this busy time.
For Gaza and the Middle East, for a miraculous way forward to peace.
For Putin and Ukraine. An end to war. Send Putin dreams of peace and sings to show the way.
For all those who need to know they are loved with Your everlasting, unfailing love today.
For leaders, insecure like Herod and cruel, Bless them with the gift of compassion and kindness.
For all those who deliver help and aid, large or small.
For all those planning Christmas meals and food for those struggling.
For refugees and those separated from family at this time.
For those with mental health problems and grief and who find this season difficult.
For ourselves, light up our lives, as we put up our Christmas decorations. Like the Kings we will seek You to give You our worship and praise and thanksgiving.
In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Worship Friday 15th December 2023
We are all just travellers on this journey called life;
Some walk in darkness, while others follow a light.
We carry our treasures so close to our heart;
Some we let go of while others never part.
And somewhere on this journey we encounter a King
That will change us forever, to Him our treasures bring.
(Chorus)
And wise men still seek Him, they follow a star
That leads them to Jesus as travellers a far.
Men of great nations and the poor of the earth
All join together to proclaim Christ’s birth.
Sometimes we find ourselves with no room at the inn
Filled with hopes and dreams, none of them with Him.
Walk along a winding road, and can’t find our way;
Look to the Heavens a star as bright as day.
And somehow He finds Himself in the hardest of hearts,
Whispers I love you, never more to part.
(Chorus)
(Bridge)
Star of Bethlehem shine tonight
And lead us and guide us to His perfect light.
Oh come Lord Jesus, we ask Thee to stay
And renew our spirit on this Christmas day.
We are all just travellers on this journey called life;
Been through the darkness, and now we see the light.
We carry a treasure more precious than gold,
A gift of redemption, His grace we now hold.
And someday we’ll find ourselves at the foot of the King
With all of God’s angels, His praises we’ll sing.
(Chorus)
Lynn Cooper