On May 10 there will be an Annular Solar Eclipse visible in Australia and the South Pacific.

            Unlike a normal Solar Eclipse, an Annular Solar Eclipse does not block out the Sun completely. Instead, because the Moon is further away form Earth than normal, the Moon covers most of the Solar disc but leaves a bright ring of fire around the Sun. The ring of fire is a beautiful sight which should, however, only be viewed through welding glass or protective eye gear.

            The darkness of a normal Solar Eclipse reminds us of the darkness attributed to the Day of the Lord (See our Blog of 11/12/12, “Solar Eclipses in the South Pacific”). The Annular Eclipse reminds us that Christ, the light of the world, will shine out in the Day of Judgment. All will see Him in the brightness of His coming. 

            We will miss the Annular Eclipse in America, but the Moon will bring us a similar reminder of the Brightness of Christ. Just after sunset, the Moon will be very near the bright planet Venus. Venus represents Christ, the Seed of Woman, in the Star Bible and is also known as the Bright Morning Star (See Rev. 22:16)

            Throughout the world on May 10, the three brightest celestial objects, the Sun, Moon, and Venus, will remind us that the darkness of the Day of Judgment will be followed by the brightness of Christ’s coming. So take your binoculars out on May 10 and see if you can find Venus and the New Moon.

            And pray that the world will see the brightness of His coming soon.