Begin with 2 minutes of stillness and silence before God.

You know, I’ve always loved the story of the Wise Men.

These dudes were coming in from the East (there’s a LOT to unpack there, but we can’t get into all of that today), probably decked out to the nines in their ancient road trip gear and following a star like it’s the world’s first GPS.

Can you imagine what that conversation between the Wise Men must have started with?

“Hey Joe, check this out. I don’t think that star was there last night…”

“You know, Larry, I think you’re right. We should follow it & see where it goes.”

And the next thing you know, they were at the foot of the newborn King of the world, offering to Him their best gifts and praises.

These guys were the original star followers, way before Hollywood had us chasing after celebrities and TikTok had us following *influencers.* And where did this star lead? Straight to a manger, to the lowliest place any of them had ever been. To a place that some would have deemed “inconsequential.”

But that’s the thing about this story. Matthew 2 is a vivid reminder that God’s plans are often hidden in plain sight, veiled from those who think they know where to look, yet revealed to those who are willing to follow His voice into the unknown. It’s about God using the unexpected to fulfill His promises, much like He uses our lives – imperfect and flawed – to display His own glory.

As we follow Christ in today’s world, we’re invited to be like the Wise Men–star followers and dream chasers, constantly seeking after the voice of the Lord and being willing to follow Him wherever He leads. It’s not always easy, and it’s definitely not what the world would want us to do (just reread about Herod to find out that much).

But it’s so, so worth it.

God is calling us to seek truth in the midst of deception, to pursue righteousness over comfort, and to offer our gifts, however humble, to the one true King.

So… what star are you following?

Take 2 minutes to reflect in silence. 

Reflection:

• Reflect on a time when you felt led by God in a direction that didn’t make sense at the time. How did you see His guidance unfold?
  
• How can you, like the Wise Men, offer your gifts and talents to serve God and serve others?
  
• In what ways do you need to be alert to God’s guidance and protection in your own life?
  
• Prayer: Father, thank You for the reminder that You guide us and protect us on our journey of faith. Help me to be attentive to Your direction, even when it leads me through the unexpected. Give me the courage to follow Your voice, to chase after You with everything I have, and to offer my life as a gift to You. Like the Wise Men, let me always seek Your face above all else. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.