Easter Sunday, April 4

Early risers of all generations have been greeted by a bright point of light above the predawn Eastern horizon, heralding the coming of a new day. This morning star signifies that night is coming to an end and soon bright sunlight will appear, supporting life in all of creation. Today we recognize that the morning “star” varies during the year. It can be the planet Mercury, the star Sirius, or, in the case of the brightest morning star, the planet Venus (the third brightest object in Earth’s sky). Was the use of “the morning star” in Revelation 22:16 simply a literary device, or did it perhaps signify something more?

God revealed Himself in two great books, and it is no surprise that the book of Scripture and the “book” of nature reinforce each other. Venus looks like Earth in size. Jesus came in the likeness of man (Philippians 2:7). Venus rotates in a reverse direction to Earth and the other planets. Christ’s life-giving message was likewise countercultural, based on self-sacrifice and the revolutionary, transformative, enduring power of love. Unlike Earth, Venus has no changing seasons. Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever – we can depend on His consistent love, unchanging will, and steadfast promises (Hebrews 13:8).

When we look through a telescope at Venus, a dense cloud layer obscures its true surface from our view. One day, we will see Christ, the bright morning star, as He truly is (I John 3:2). What an unimaginable joy it will be someday to worship our Lord in absolute purity – free of all earthly distractions, weakness, and double-mindedness that cloud our mind and spirit. Until that day comes, the rising of the morning star is a reminder that this night is soon to be over, giving way to a future ever filled with glorious Light. As we continue to walk through difficult times, the Bright Morning Star reminds us we can continue in this journey with complete confidence. He is risen! And His light forever illuminates our path.

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