Matthew 1-2

“Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him" (Matt 2:2).  From a human perspective, Jesus’ birth and first few years were fragile, vulnerable times.  Mary and Joseph’s situation put them outside religious or political protection; in fact, King Herod hunted them and forced them to become refugees in Egypt.  Yet Jesus’ birth was planned and celebrated so magnificently by God that Eastern wise men followed a star to find him.

“They rejoiced exceedingly with great joy” (2:10). Despite the everyday problems that swirl around us, when God is our purpose and our goal, the outcome will surely be great joy.