Go outside one night this week when the sky is dark and clear. Just take a little time for some stargazing. Notice how some stars are brighter than others. Pick out the constellations and clusters. Maybe you’ll even see a shooting star! Stargazing helps me to wonder or marvel at the majesty of God. That can also be called “fear of the Lord.” It’s not an “afraid” kind of fear, but more of an “awe” at His glory.
Looking up at the night sky this time of year reminds me of the magi and their journey. The holy star guided the magi on their pilgrimage to adore the Christ child: “And behold, the star that they had seen at its rising preceded them, until it came and stopped over the place where the child was. They were overjoyed at seeing the star, and on entering the house they saw the child with Mary his mother” (Matthew 2:9-11).
In our first reading this Epiphany Sunday, Isaiah 60:1-6, the glory of God has come to Jerusalem as light: “Rise up in splendor, Jerusalem! Your light has come, the glory of the Lord shines upon you…upon you the Lord shines, and over you appears his glory.” Then in our Gospel reading, Matthew 2:1-12, the magi see the fulfillment of this prophecy: “Where is the newborn king of the Jews? We saw his star at its rising and have come to do him homage.” The star is like the glory of the Lord shining upon the land of Israel, pointing the way to the Messiah, the King of Israel.
The magi were led by the literal light of Christ. How is God calling me to be led by His light when I encounter situations that leave me feeling that I am in darkness or uncertainty. Do I trust that God will give me just enough light on my path to take the next step, to say the next “yes” to His call for me? Or do I panic or worry when I can’t see where He is leading me?
Lord, lead me by Your holy light. Help me to trust in Your goodness and promises. Give me the courage I need to take the next step in my walk of faith.