DAYSTAR

We live in a dark world. The scripture speaks of’the darkness of this world’, Eph. 6. 12, and the power that darkness exercises over humanity, Col. 1. 13. As the scripture states, so experience proves, that men are lovers of darkness rather than light because their deeds are evil, John 3. 19. Darkness characterizes and describes the social, moral, political, and religious condition of society. Against the background of this darkness, the believer is encouraged to look into the word of God, as ‘a light that shineth in a dark place’, and to look up ‘until the day dawn, and the daystar arise’, v. 19.

The Daystar is the sign of the oncoming dawn. It ‘reflects the light of the sun still below the horizon and so heralds the coming day’, D. Edmond Hiebert. The world may be dark, and its conditions growing more inhospitable for the saint of God, but we can be assured that the day of glory is approaching fast. The Daystar is a testimony to the fact that God’s prophetic programme will run its course. Nothing can stall or stop it! The day of Christ’s manifestation and vindication will come. We shall not only see Him, but we shall be with Him. What effect does this prospect have upon our hearts?

The Daystar is distinct from earth and its luminaries. It is set in the heavens. There is a permanency of power that characterizes this star. Though its appearance may be shrouded by cloud, it still shines. Our appreciation of Christ may fluctuate, but the brilliance of His beauty can never be sullied. He will dispel all darkness, and defeat every foe, when He establishes His kingdom.

But the coming of Christ as the Daystar is not just a matter for theological discussion. It is intensely practical. Paul wrote, ‘the night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light’, Rom. 13. 12. The Daystar arising in our hearts means to live with the assurance of the Lord’s coming and to be active in service until He comes. ‘It behoves us to live consistently, labour ceaselessly and look constantly for Christ ... as watchers who work and worship while waiting’, Charles Rolls.