Hanging of the Green

Scripture Reading

Matthew 2:1–2 CSB

1 After Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of King Herod, wise men from the east arrived in Jerusalem, 2 saying, “Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we saw his star at its rising and have come to worship him.”

Matthew 2:9–10 CSB

9 After hearing the king, they went on their way. And there it was—the star they had seen at its rising. It led them until it came and stopped above the place where the child was. 10 When they saw the star, they were overwhelmed with joy.

Significance of the Star

"Star of wonder, star of night

Star with royal beauty bright.

Westward leading, still proceeding,

Guide us to thy perfect light."

 Throughout the ages, astronomers have proposed countless theories about the mysterious light over Bethlehem. 

Some have thought this light to be that of Halley's Comet, or the sudden merging of two planets. 

In spite of these theories and speculations, however, and according to ancient manuscripts, a spectacular celestial object was seen. 

Whatever the mysteries surrounding the Bethlehem Star, it has survived the centuries as a symbol of the new birth, a new promise, and a new way of life that has changed the course of human history. 

It represents the one true "perfect light" that will not be vanquished. 

Since Jesus has been referred to as "the light of the world" in the New Testament, the lighting of candles has become an important part of our Christian worship. 

We light these candles to symbolize Christ's coming into the world of sin and evil, war and strife, stress and turmoil, suffering and death. 

He came to bring the hope of salvation and freedom for those held captive by oppression, and to guide them into perfect peace by reconciling them to God.