FOLLOW THE STAR - Jan. 2020, France
The faithful camels plodded on the dusty road.
Uncomplaining, they served their masters, the Kings
Who came from the East, captivated by the bright star.
They were wise to follow it;
To see where its brightness shone.

Tired, they continued on their way.
Strange, that a solitary start, a wonderful light, would draw them!
Nothing could stop them, even the dangers and deceitful men they met - for Herod tried to trick them;
his forked tongue assaulted the truth
and desperately attempted to divert God’s plan for man’s salvation.
Oh, how they discerned and deserted his lies.
How thy listened in their dreams to Love’s truth.

Steady and sure, they arrived.
Oh, they had come to see what God had done!
Falling on their knees,
the Kings of the Orient paid homage to the Chosen One,
the Prince of Peace, the Holy Redeemer of mankind,
the Son of the Living God, the Word Made Flesh, the King –
a Baby, lying in a manger of straw!
How God’s mighty hand touched our world
And lifted up our Saviour – for how He loves us!
Complete innocence and humility, born in a stable… for us.

So easy to dismiss it all – a fairy tale, a fantasy so sweet.
But no! Believe or die in your denial and ignorance.
The Son of God, born for us –
Prophesised so long ago, is now with us: Emmanuel. Praise Him!

His light is perfect light,
Radiating from pure love - a love which only God could create –
Indescribable, unfathomable
Penetrating the very depths of our souls.

The Kings brought gifts, knowing in advance that this was no ordinary journey;
No ordinary destination;
No ordinary baby – whom they would find under an amazing star;
Lying in a manger of yellow straw.
His earthly parents, Mary and Joseph, looked on –
Adorningly, pondering the Son of God and Author of Life.

Frankincense, to give perfume to our prayers,
For to Heaven they ascend, to be met with mercy and love.
Myrrh, to represent the fragrance which would adorn the Messiah’s body
Before His ascent to His Father above, after Life conquered death forever.
Gold – to symbolise His Kingship; his priceless gift to us: of life, of love, of
healing, of renewal, of eternity and of just judgement –

and, so, all mankind will receive the judgement of The Righteous King.
Thanks be to God. Amen.
JulieHughes(c)Januarypoetry 2020