December 31, 2025
The white dot in the sky in the picture above is actually the planet Venus
as it rises from the eastern horizon in Baja California, Mexico.
Around November, Venus rises about an hour before dawn.
This is why it is often called the "Morning Star."
It is so brilliant that it outshines every other planet or star in the sky; you truly can’t miss it.
However, it remains visible for only a short time; as the sun rises, its light overwhelms everything else and the darkness of night vanishes.
Then, around December, Venus takes a "winter break" and will not be seen again until a few months into the following year.
In the Old Testament, the prophet Isaiah was looking forward to a great light that would shine away darkness:
"The people walking in darkness have seen a great light;
on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned."
Isaiah 9:2
Hundreds of years later, a star shone so
brilliantly that it guided seekers to a humble manger in Bethlehem.
Matthew 2 tells the story of the Magi(wise men) following this celestial guide to find Jesus:
"After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod,
Magi from the east came to Jerusalem and asked,
'Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.'"
Matthew 2:1-2
Christmas reminds us of the fulfillment of this promised dawn in Jesus Christ.
And as we leave 2025, we recognize that life may not have been always rosy.
Darkness lingers around us in the form of wars, sickness, natural disasters, broken relationships, unfulfilled dreams, anxieties, hate.....
But as we welcome 2026, let us be reminded of Jesus' words:
“....that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.”
John 16:33
Jesus acknowledges the "tribulation" of this world.
And that we may be comforted, reminding us that Christ's victory applies to our personal struggles, promising peace and courage.
"For to us a child is born,
to us a son is given,
and the government will be on his shoulders.
And he will be called
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace."
Isaiah 9:6
May the light of Christ guide your path, warm your heart, and bring you true peace this new year.