“When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy.” (Matt. 2:10)

Christmas decorations are appearing everywhere!

Yes, many people just stick decorations up willy-nilly without giving thought to what they represent. But not me. When I see the decorations, I picture in my mind a great heavenly celebration that’s about the reason for the season, the birth of Jesus. I especially love seeing lighted stars; they remind me of how the wisemen reacted when they saw the Bethlehem star and “rejoiced with exceeding great joy” (Matt. 2:10). I use the decorations I see as a reminder of what it was like on that wonderful day when Christ was born and of the angelic multitude rejoiced together before the shepherds tending their flocks nearby.

“And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”

Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” (Luke 2:8-14)