Coincidence:

1. The state or fact of occupying the same relative position or area in space.

2. A sequence of events that although accidental seems to have been planned or arranged.

3. The occurrence of events that happen at the same time by accident but seem to have some connection.

Back in their time, it was forbidden for the sheep to be kept around towns because they didn’t want the cities to smell like feed lots. However, there was one type of sheep that they made an exception for: the Passover lambs for sacrifice. They were to be born in Bethlehem. So, the shepherds that were in Bethlehem saw every single Passover lamb. It was called the “lambing season” for sheep in Palestine.

Could it be a coincidence that Jesus, being the "lamb of the world," was born at the same time the Passover lambs were born? Jesus was born when the lambs were born, and he died when the Passover lamb was slaughtered on Nissan 14. Luke 2:12 (KJV) says, “And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.”

Feast of Lights: During this special feast another part of the Holy Convocation (rehearsal), was that from the Temple Mount rose a huge light, to light the night over Jerusalem.

In the court of the temple, there were 4 huge posts 75 feet tall. On top of each post were 4 oil lamps, huge vats of oil, with thick wicks made from the used undergarments of the priests. These undergarments were called “Swaddling cloths.” Remember, the Temple sat on top of Mount Moriah, so these lights would shine into every home, and every booth during this festival.

The birth of Christ was announced to the Jewish shepherds by an angel, to the Gentile philosophers (Wise Men) by a star. God relayed the message in the way they were best acquainted with. God will always help you by getting the message to you in the perfect way that you will receive it. The main thing is to be willing, just as the Wise men and shepherds were willing.

The wise men followed the star, but you can only see the star at night time. Just because it’s a dark hour for you doesn’t mean that God is not working. Everyone has dark times in their life, but there will always be a start to get you to your destination. Jesus will be there waiting for you, just as he was for the wise men.

Just pray and ask God to open your eyes. He will show you how valuable, loved and accepted you truly are.

- Pastor