Sunday, December 11, 2005

December 12 Devotion

"O star of wonder, star of light,
star with royal beauty bright.
Westward leading still proceeding
guide us to thy perfect light"


The light referred to in the nativity story may have been a star, a planet, or a comet.  It was unusual in that its visibility was so bright and it was obvious that the travelers knew it was something out of the ordinary.  The wise men acknowledged it, followed it, and found the Christ Child.
Songwriters call it "his star," "the perfect light," "a holy light."  Nursery rhymes refer to "star light, star bright."  Christmas cards and decorations often include stars.  We may think of these stars as signs of hope and/or promise.
 
Jesus tells us in Matthew 5:14 "You are the light of the world," and in Matthew 5:16 "Let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your father in heaven."  Advent reminds us that each of us has the light of a shining star within us, that we can radiate love and goodness to others.  We may be a sign of hope to others at the very time that they need it.  We may be at the right place at the right time. Just as a star led the wise men to the Christ Child, by our actions and deeds we are meant to be the stars that lead others to the Christ.  Others also act as stars leading us to a closer relationship with the holy one.
 
May the light of this shining star dance in each of our lives and bring joy to us and those we meet each day.
 
Marilyn Holleron
 
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