December 14, 2022 –
Often the first word that comes to mind when people think about prophecy is Nostradamus, the French astrologer born in 1503. His adherents claim that he accurately predicted pivotal events in history, including the French Revolution; the rise of Napoleon and Hitler; the development of the atomic bomb; the assassination of JFK, and September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center.
Nostradamus claimed to base his predictions on judicial astrology—the art of forecasting future events by calculating planets and stellar bodies related to the earth.
Regarding heavenly planets, stars, and prophecy, I think about the first Christmas and the star of Bethlehem, which guided the three kings, or wise men, to the baby Jesus. The star is also the heavenly sign of a prophecy fulfilled long ago and the shining hope for humanity.
The positioning of stellar bodies was important to Nostradamus, but the star of Bethlehem was essential to leading people to the stable.
Two thousand years before the first Christmas, the Prophet Isaiah foretold the birth of Jesus as a baby. “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, NIV)
Now, 2,000 years later, we celebrate the birth of that child, Jesus.
Mention prophecy and Christians think about the accuracy of Bible prophecy. I find one of the most remarkable prophecies for believers in the Book of John. “And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.” (John 14:3 KJV)
My family and I encourage you to enjoy the food, family, friends and presents beneath the tree as you celebrate Christmas this year. The secret to a happy Christmas is don’t forget the reason for the season. Christmas is a great day, and Easter is even better.