Tradition gives us three wise men. Scripture simply says, “Wise men from the East came to Jerusalem” (Matthew 2:1). Some translations call them “magi,” and others say, “band of scholars,” and another says, “astrologers.” It is hard to know who they are precisely. What we do know is that they were pagans. They had no connection with the Jewish people, their prophets, or their messiah. And yet, according to the story, they come from the East to “pay him homage” (Matthew 2: 2). They came to worship him.
This was a new journey for the so-called Wise Men. They had no connection to the Jewish people. And yet, according to the story, they will travel many miles over treacherous terrain to worship him.
They follow the light. The light guides them through the darkness. It is like the prophet Isaiah has said, “Arise, shine; for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you……Nations shall come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your dawn” (Isaiah 60:1-2). Not knowing what the journey will mean, they consent to it. They follow the star, not knowing where the star will lead.
What if we could face the uncertainty of our future with such focus? What if we could make the journey into the New Year without fear? What if we could have a guiding star?
If we are going to write a better story in 2022 we must pay attention to God’s guiding light. But how?
I am suggesting, we listen for one word. We pay attention to what is God’s word for us this year. Instead of a list of resolutions, we focus on one word. This one word will serve as the guiding star that directs our life in 2022.
God may not be sending stars to show us the way but I believe God can give us a word that we can use to navigate through the year.
What word do you hear the Lord speaking to you?
Right-click and save the star image below, write your word on it, and share it on social media.
Weekly Prayer
God of light,
We keep looking for a bright sign of hope. However, in a Herod world, I am afraid we are looking in the wrong direction and to the wrong people.
Give us the faith to follow your light into the darkness, courage to stay on the journey, and imagination to accept the adventure.
Once the light of your salvation captures us, we pray we will all be light-bearers in this dark world.
Reveal to us the word that will guide us through the year.
In the name of Jesus, the Light of the World, we pray. Amen.
My Word for 2022
Favorite Video of the Week
Betty White SNL Opening Monologue
Favorite Meme of the Week
Photo of the Week (photos taken by me)
Have you ever wanted to study the book of Revelation? Make plans to join me beginning Wednesday, January 28, 2022, for a Zoom-based study.
Don’t forget to post your word for the year! I can’t wait to see where the Lord is leading you.
My word is persevere
Love this! Happy New Year. My word is Hope