Stars have an important place in ancient biblical history. Even back into ancient secular history the brilliance of the polestar is connected with leading, with being a guide. So it was when the Magi, kings from the East, were led to the manger in Bethlehem where the newborn baby Jesus lay. They were led by the Polestar. (Matt. 2:2, 9-10) Later in Rev. 22:16 Christ Himself becomes the Polestar of the world, the ultimate Guide, and is also referred to as the Bright and Morning Star.
In his excellent Morning and Evening devotional, the “Prince of Preachers” Charles H. Spurgeon comments on this imagery. Asks Spurgeon:
What weather is coming for the Church? Are the clouds lowering, or is it all clear and fair overhead?
… What stars are visible? What precious promises suit our present case? You sound the alarm, give us the consolation also. Christ, the polestar, is ever fixed in His place, and all the stars are secure in the right hand of their Lord.
But … when comes the morning? The Bridegroom tarries. Are there no signs of His coming forth as the Sun of Righteousness? Has not the morning star arisen as the pledge of day? When will the day dawn, and the shadows flee away? O Jesus, if Thou come not in person to Thy waiting Church this day, yet come in Spirit to my sighing heart, and make it sing for joy.
… Come, Jesus, Lord, O quickly come, according to Thy word. (August 6, Morning)
This Baby born in Bethlehem so long ago is indeed God Incarnate, our Polestar, our Guide, our Bright and Morning Star as we enter this year 2019. Even now He is our Joy, our Hope. Rejoice and celebrate and go into the year ahead.