Today’s Reading: Matthew 2:1-12 NRSV
“For we observed his star in the east …” Matthew 2:2b
For this Advent Season I have focused on the issues of light and darkness that we find in our scriptures. These are images that speak to our contemporary experience and describe both the challenges we face today and the hope we are given in Christ that these will be overcome by the presence of God in the lives of faithful people.
It is interesting to note that the only reference to light in the several stories of Jesus’ birth is found in Matthew in his mentioning the Star of Bethlehem; a star that guided “wise” men to find the Messiah, the Christchild. This story has always interested me for the simple reason that this “star” was plainly visible to all humankind at this time. Since it appears to have been rather dramatic and stood out among others in the heavens, many may have noted its appearance. Yet only a small number of people [3 according to Matthew based on the three gifts that are mentioned since Matthew doesn’t give us an actual number] took the time to ponder its meaning and then use it for guidance.
I believe that God is still active in our world through the lives of people seeking to live the kind of life that Jesus called his followers to live. Further I believe that God continues to offer us signs to guide us in seeking to live such a life. But only those who pause to ponder the meanings of Jesus’ teachings, and seek to grow spiritually, will see those signs and follow them to full authentic living in what Jesus described as God’s Kingdom.
Reflections 