Blog written by Ray White

“After they had heard the king, they went on their way, and the star they had seen when it rose went ahead of them until it stopped over the place where the child was.  When they saw the star, they were overjoyed.  On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.” Matthew 2:9-11 NIV

Astronomers estimate our universe contains at least 70 septillion stars, that’s 7 followed by 23 zeros. That’s roughly 10,000 stars for each grain of sand on Earth. I can’t comprehend a number that large. Yet, it was ONE star that led the Maji to Bethlehem on their journey to find Jesus, the messiah.

Today as we celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior, let’s remember that as followers of Christ we have the responsibility to help others. 

We cross paths with thousands of people each year, some we work closely with, some just passing in stores or on the street. We seldom know what challenges are taking place in the lives of others. 

I can tell you specific times in my life when the actions, words, or just the simple act of being there from someone has been a gift from God. Single acts of kindness that to this day stand out. It isn’t always about sharing your testimony. It can be retrieving an item from the top shelf at a supermarket for someone, helping a person pick up dropped items, visiting someone sick, kind words, smiles and sincere words of encouragement. Listening. Caring. Loving others, as Jesus directed: “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” John 13:34

Let’s be Children of God who love and help others daily, not just during this special Christmas Season. Allow God to use us to share His glory, to shine for Him.