The Magi followed a star to a distant land to pay homage to the newborn King. What they witnessed was not what they anticipated. Instead of a prince in a palace, they saw the child with his mother in a humble abode. They had two choices: to walk away in disappointment or to turn their backs on worldly opinions and worship the true Wisdom of God. They chose wisely, trusting their guide, the star. The Holy Spirit guides us on our life’s journey. The Magi were overjoyed when they saw the star. Do we allow the Holy Spirit to bring his joy to us, and do we obey him even when his counsel contradicts the world’s? Do we listen to him and change our decisions, as the Magi changed their return route? Through the First Reading, we are called to arise and shine despite the thick darkness covering our world, because the Lord’s glory fills us as we host his presence. His light will draw others to have their lives illuminated too.

PRAYER: Abba Father, may your light shine in and through our lives. Amen.