January 6, 2004

THE BRIGHT AND MORNING STAR

"I, Jesus, have sent My angel to testify to you these things in the churches. I am... the Bright and Morning Star" (Rev. 22:16, NKJV).

The final message of the book of Revelation vividly describes the splendor and wonders of the new world of harmony that will emerge when Christ makes all things new. In this impressive setting, Jesus assures His people that He is the "Bright and Morning Star" of the new Edenic world order. This assurance is especially pertinent since the morning star always shines brightest in the darkness that immediately precedes the dawn.

The morning star is the celestial herald of the dawn of a new day. It awakens thoughts of hope, great expectation, and the joy of a new beginning. The morning star dispels the darkness of night and announces the majesty of daybreak. There is something hope-inspiring about the morning star after a long -night of waiting.

In the fullness of time (see Galatians 4:4), Christ came as the long-awaited Messiah and Saviour of the world.' Appropriately, His birth place in Bethlehem was identified by a guiding star. His first advent was the joyous fulfillment of the long-awaited messianic prediction of the "Bright and Morning Star." His coming brought salvation to all who believe and receive Him as Lord.

As we await the dawn of God's blessed tomorrow, may these reassuring words inspire us: "He [Christ], is the bright and morning star, shining amid the moral darkness of this sinful, corrupt world. He is the light of the world, and all who give their hearts to Him will find peace, rest, and joy."--Mind, Character, and Personality, vol. 2, p. 804.

MY PRAYER TODAY: Lord, may the, "Bright and Morning Star" bring me hope for tomorrow. Amen!