JANUARY 1 | MATTHEW 2:1-12

---

DAILY READING

Matthew 2:1-12

---

REFLECTION

Follow that Star...Even Today 

By Judy Webb

"After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem and asked, "Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him." (Matthew 2:1-2 NIV)

I really enjoy reading verse 2 from the VOICE version…

“Where is this newborn who is King of the Jews? When we were far away in the East we saw His star, and we have followed its glisten and gleam all this way to worship Him.”

This is an exciting story of some rich and wise men who we understand to be pagan, but obviously learned men, who knew Scripture and had been hearing for years of the coming event. They were curious about the star which would lead folks to a Messiah, and the Savior of Mankind.

Perhaps they didn’t believe it until they saw the star. Perhaps you didn’t believe it until you saw a star. That star could have been in the form of a phenomenon, a presence that turned your world from a total wreck to a wonderous time of peace. Then you decided to follow that star and see what all the fuss was.

Luke 2:11 “Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; He is the Messiah, the Lord.” You keep following the star and “You find a babe wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger.” (Luke 2:12)

As you continue to follow that star you learn about how, “The Word became flesh and dwelt among us.” (John 1:14) Take a few more steps and you will discover even more. “They will call Him Immanuel”, which means “God with us”. (Matthew 1:23)

As we enter 2026 and begin with a new and clean slate why not continue to follow the Star. Who knows where it will lead you! Remember, wise men follow Jesus; what am I following? Our ultimate assignment is to follow Jesus…even when the path isn’t clear. He is the Light of the World and He will light your way.

Happy New Year!

PRAYER

Dear Jesus, Thank you for that Star which prompted shepherds to take notice, and is still today encouraging us to take a good hard look. Following this star is the beginning of new life and new relationships. Jesus, you are that new life and the most fruitful life of all. Amen.

---

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

JUDY WEBB

I have been a member of UALC for 26 years and have been writing devotions for this site for about 17 of them. Writing is my passion. As retired staff I still love everything about UALC and its members including my small group.