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Numbers 24:17 — “There shall come a Star out of Jacob, and a Sceptre shall rise out of Israel, and shall smite the corners of Moab, and destroy all the children of Sheth.”

Spoken through Balaam, this prophecy describes the coming Messiah as both a Star and a Sceptre. The star represents light and guidance, while the sceptre represents authority and kingship. Together, they point us to Christ, who shines as the Light of the World and reigns as the rightful King. Even from unlikely lips, God declared the glory of His coming Son.

Stars have always symbolized direction in the night sky. The wise men who later followed a star to Bethlehem unknowingly fulfilled this prophecy, seeing in the heavens a sign of the true Light who had entered the world. Just as a star pierces darkness, so Christ pierces the darkness of sin, offering hope and guidance to all who believe. His coming means that no one has to wander without direction.

The sceptre speaks of dominion and victory. The prophecy points to Christ as the one who rules over nations and brings judgment upon His enemies. Christmas is not only about a tender infant but also about a conquering King. The manger leads to the throne, and the cradle is inseparable from the crown.

For believers, this dual image of star and sceptre provides comfort and courage. Christ is both the gentle light who leads us and the mighty ruler who defends us. Gratitude grows when we realize that we are not left in darkness nor abandoned to our enemies. We walk in His light and rest under His reign.

This Christmas season, let us look to Christ as our Star and Sceptre. He is the light for our journey and the King who holds our future. His coming fulfills prophecy and secures our hope forever.