Star of Wonder

As I sit down to write this, I am still filled with the awe of seeing the Christmas Star shining brightly in the December sky.

For the first time since medieval times, Jupiter and Saturn became so close to each other that they appeared as a bright “double planet”, which we see as a bright star.

It is the closest great conjunction of the planets since 1623 and the first to be easily observable since 1226. It became visible to us on December 21, 2020, the darkest day of the year, the Winter Solstice.

The wonders of God never cease!

Was the Star of Bethlehem, that led the Magi to the infant Jesus, the same as the Christmas Star we just witnessed? Some think that is quite conceivable, but only God knows. However, what we do know from scripture is that the Three Wise Men followed that star to the Light of the World, the Christ Child. Like the Magi, let us seek Jesus. He is our Light. In John 8:12 we are assured by His own Words: “When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, ‘I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life ’.”

I hope many of you saw the Christmas star. If not, you can still see it up until January 7. Look to the southwest soon after sundown. You can see it for about two hours as it gradually grows dimmer. It is pretty awesome and a very positive event which can bring light to a very dark and negative year.

May we always praise and thank Christ our Savior for being with us and pouring out His light and love upon us in the dark days of winter and the dark days of our lives.

Star of wonder…….guide us to your perfect light!

Jan Knicely, Associate in Ministry emeritus

Holy Trinity Lutheran Church