Shining Like a Star
As you know, S.T.A.R.S. is the acronym we’ve given those supporting the orphans, widows, and marginalized in India and Rwanda (Shining Together Actively Reflecting the Savior). All of us who follow Jesus are also called to shine like stars to our world. “Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the word of life.” (Philippians 2:14–16)
Before the invention of GPS, people navigated at night by the stars. Whether on a ship or on land, the constant position of the stars allowed men and women to find their way. Besides stationing the stars in their places for our guidance, God also uses them every night to broadcast His presence throughout every inch of our globe.
When we say that the stars are to serve as “guides,” we must clarify that there is a huge amount of difference between astronomy and astrology. Astronomy is the study of the heavens, much like physicians study the human body, to understand it’s complexity and, at the same time, it’s coherence and congruity. Astrology, on the other hand, attempts to add meaning to one’s life based on the positions of the stars and planets.
Philippians tells us that we serve as guides, like the stars, as we hold out the Word of life. This is a reminder that the Bible, alone, has the message of new life and eternal life in Jesus. The Bible, though an old book, is up-to-date in addressing the deeper issues of today’s human heart. Jesus said, “I am the Light of the world. Whoever follows Me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” (John 8:12). Most people are stumbling along in the darkness, trying to figure out life. We are to share the message that the answers to life are found in Jesus.
As the earth spins, the stars appear to move across the sky. However, they remain stationary, and only the earth is revolving. Jesus is the one stability in life. He will never change. He will always love you (though, not always approve of your choices). His sacrifice on the cross will always be sufficient payment for all your sins. Jesus will always be faithful to His promises.
Our message doesn’t change. Whether in America, India, Rwanda, or elsewhere, the message is the same. It’s Jesus. It’s always Jesus. “But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His wonderful light.” (1 Peter 2:9)
Thank you, STARS, for supporting the people of India and Rwanda. Let’s also be stars to the people around us and point them to Jesus.
Marlon Furtado