Advent Tree Family Devotions – December 2

The first of the Christ symbols is a six-pointed star, a symbol with a long and checkered history. It is used currently on the flag of the State of Israel. Previously it served to identify the Jewish people during World War 2, on the ancient and mystical “Seal of Solomon”, and in idol worship in many cultures.   More importantly, the six-sided star is the Star of Creation. The six points, six outer triangles and six sides of the inner hexagon reflect the six days of creation of the universe.

Jesus Christ, the focus of Christmas, is the ultimate creator; He has created all things. Out of nothing (Latin “ex nihilo”), He created everything that exists in the universe. The fabulous intricacy of the human body, the web of life, the awe-inspiring beauty of nature, and the bewildering variety in the universe overwhelm us with a sense of His amazing wisdom and power.

As you place the six pointed star on the Advent calendar and read about the creativity of our Savior, think about the significance of this symbol.

Ponder the creation of light and darkness, and the fundamental role that energy plays in the universe. Consider the heavens and the earth, the plant world, the sun, moon and stars, and the animal kingdom. Meditate on the mystery of Man, the pinnacle of God’s creation, and his responsibility to oversee the world, and to love and serve his Maker.

Made in God’s image, and using resources in the world He has made, we also create. Art, music, architecture, literature, engineering, agriculture, and mathematics, whether done by a novice or a master, are examples of human creativity. Most amazing of all, man and woman come together in the ultimate human creative act…producing a new life.

Advent season is a celebration of the birth of Jesus, God the Son. He has created a magnificent universe for His glory and our blessedness, and we as reflections of Him should create for the glory of God and the benefit of others. Let us rejoice in this great mission as we ponder the Star of Creation.

Hark, the Herald Angels Sing

Hark! the herald angels sing
“Glory to the newborn King!
Peace on earth and mercy mild
God and sinners reconciled”
Joyful, all ye nations rise
Join the triumph of the skies
With th’angelic host proclaim:
“Christ is born in Bethlehem”
Hark! the herald angels sing
“Glory to the newborn King!”

Christ by highest heav’n adored
Christ the everlasting Lord!
Late in time behold Him come
Offspring of the Virgin’s womb
Veiled in flesh the Godhead see
Hail th’incarnate Deity
Pleased as man with men to dwell
Jesus, our Emmanuel
Hark! the herald angels sing
“Glory to the newborn King!”

Hail the heav’n-born Prince of Peace!
Hail the Son of Righteousness!
Light and life to all He brings
Ris’n with healing in His wings
Mild He lays His glory by
Born that man no more may die
Born to raise the sons of earth
Born to give them second birth
Hark! the herald angels sing
“Glory to the newborn King!”