Most people these days have some sort of navigation device: in their smart phone, installed in their cars, or even a small GPS on the dashboard secured with a suction cup. These devices literally tell us where we are, where we are going, and where we have been. They tell us what the traffic is like and how long it will take to reach a certain place and even alternate routes if necessary. It’s pretty difficult to get lost. And if we do take a wrong turn they even reconfigure the direction we have taken.
Unfortunately at the time of Jesus birth, no such devices existed. People had to use natural landmarks to help them find their way. And no one more so than the Magi whom we celebrate on this feast of the Epiphany: That famous star which they followed for who knows how long, before they reached Bethlehem and the place where Jesus was born.
It’s easy to romanticize that journey they took with their camels and supplies and those precious gifts. But travelling in those days was anything but easy and pleasant. Following a star means you travel at night; deserts get cold after dark; camels can’t possibly compare to the luxury of our automobiles. And stars are known for disappearing behind cloudy skies.
As we begin another New Year, we continue our own journey of finding Christ. From our experience we know there are ups and downs, bright clear skies and overcast nights; snow sleet and rain as well as bitter cold. Some days are smooth sailing while others have unexpected twist and turns along the way. But we too move forward, seeking direction and looking for familiar landmarks to guide our way.
We may not have a spiritual GPS but we certainly have a navigational system in the life and the good news which Jesus brought. When we take the wrong turns Jesus offers us forgiveness and the opportunity to reconfigure our direction. The bright star of Bethlehem repeatedly reappears and shows us the way.
May the faith and the determination of these three legendary travelers be our inspiration and in this coming year may we too find where that Christ child is reborn for us.