Once the Wise Men discovered that prophecy dictated Jesus would be born in Bethlehem, they continued on their journey from Jerusalem, and suddenly, the star itself began to guide them along (see Matthew 2:9). 

In that supernatural moment, they did not ignore the guidance of the star. They did not spend time doubting. They did not even just sit there and marvel at this wonder. They knew that something extraordinary was occurring and recognized that this star was a magnificent herald of someone infinitely greater. So they responded in faith and followed the star.

Just as God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light, God had brought light to the minds of these Gentile Magi, that they might behold the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ (see 2 Corinthians 4:6). As a result, they desired to have a relationship with God rather than waste their lives chasing the empty promises of their pagan culture. And when they saw Jesus, all the emptiness and anxiety they had ever felt disappeared. Their journey was over.

When the Magi recognized the star, the celestial announcement of the birth of the King of kings, they responded in faith. They interrupted their lives to worship Jesus. The question is: Have you? Perhaps you have been in His Kingdom for some time, but have you been living in the light? Have you been worshiping Christ with your whole heart? Are you trusting Him to lead you, guide you, comfort you, and walk with you daily?

Scripture tells us, “[T]here is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved” (Acts 4:12). It also declares, “The righteous will live by faith” (Romans 1:17). The God who left the splendor of heaven to come to earth, who humbled Himself to become an embryo in a virgin’s womb, who lived in poverty, who died a gruesome death on the cross, and who was resurrected on the third day is asking you to put your faith in Him—and Him alone.

Just as the star of Bethlehem rose and guided the Magi to Christ, the Holy Spirit is drawing you to come and worship Christ this Christmas season. The joy that the Magi experienced when they found the Son can be yours if you come to Him today in repentance and faith. 

Prayer: Father, You are the author of faith. I praise You for Your grace and mercy to me. May my faith grow and glorify You this Christmas as I reflect on the wonders of Your love. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.

“For God, who said, ‘Let light shine out of darkness,’ made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of God’s glory displayed in the face of Christ” (2 Corinthians 4:6).

Learn more in Dr. Michael Youssef’s sermon Only One Star Speaks: LISTEN NOW | WATCH NOW

Check out more from Dr. Michael Youssef, here!

About The Author

Dr. Michael Youssef, Ph.D.

Even before he was born, it is clear that God had a vision for Michael Youssef. His mother was in poor health when she became pregnant with Michael, and because his life was in danger at the time of birth, the doctor recommended terminating the pregnancy. An abortion was scheduled. But God intervened and sent the family pastor to reassure them that God was involved in this pregnancy. He told them not to be afraid and that the child would be "born to serve the Lord." Michael's parents accepted the pastor's message as a message from God and obeyed. His mother gave birth, and lived to see him give his life to the Lord at the age of sixteen.


Believing that God had called him out of Egypt, Michael sought an exit visa in a time in which no university student was allowed to have a passport or leave the country. God intervened again, and miraculously he managed to acquire a visa. He immigrated to Australia, where he studied at Moore Theological College in Sydney, was ordained as a pastor, and met Elizabeth who became his wife.


The Youssefs came to America in 1977, and in 1978 Michael received a master's degree in theology at Fuller Theological Seminary in California. Then he earned a doctorate in social anthropology at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia. Michael served nearly ten years in the Haggai Institute, traveling around the world more than 32 times, teaching courses in evangelism and leadership. He rose to the position of Managing Director at the age of 31 years. The family settled in Atlanta, and in 1984, Michael became a citizen of the United States, making his dream of many years come true.


He founded The Church of The Apostles in 1987 with fewer than 40 adults with the mission of "Equipping the Saints and Searching for the Lost". The church has since grown to be a congregation of over 3,000 people today. This church has driven the international ministry of Leading the Way. While it is heard by millions at home and abroad, behind every message preached through radio waves, is the heart of a pastor, willing to nurture and care for these people. Clearly God has uniquely equipped Dr. Youssef to speak to a global audience. The path he has taken has given him an understanding and firm grasp of the Scriptures that transcend cultures. He preaches, teaches and calls with a sincere, based on the authority of the inerrant, inspired Word of God. With his personal knowledge of the Holy Land, its history and culture, Dr. Michael Youssef transmits life to listeners all over the world.



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