Close your eyes, breathe, and clear your mind. Be still. Center your scattered senses on God’s presence.
REFLECTION: Written by Michael Dyer
The search for Jesus and his birthplace by the Magi has forever seemed fascinating to me. These were people of prominence and stature in Middle Eastern society moved to make a long journey across foreign lands to an undefined location. No GPS, not even a rudimentary road map, they were guided by celestial navigation. In addition to the burden of an indeterminate itinerary, they came laden with valuable gifts, which made them a target of highway bandits. What a frightful journey for those who could have just as easily stayed at home in a comfortable tent! Yet God guided them in their quest and they found Jesus, the Christ child. Christ came not only to free the lowly shepherds, the outcasts of society, but the Magi as well, people of wealth and privilege who still needed and sought God’s saving grace. What a wonderful Savior we serve. Merry Christmas.
SCRIPTURE: Psalm 29:1-2
Ascribe to the Lord, O heavenly beings, ascribe to the Lord glory and strength.
Ascribe to the Lord the glory of his name; worship the Lord in holy splendor.
Pause and meditate on the Scripture.
PRAYER: Written by Richard John Neuhaus (1936-2009), a Christian cleric and writer.
Father in heaven, you came to earth in the person of your Son, Jesus Christ. At the coming of your Spirit upon Mary inspired her to welcome the One who is her child and her lord, so also open our eyes to the gift already given. Forgive us our restless searching for your presence according to our expectations. Direct our searching according to your gift. May we, like the star-led sages of old, be ever guided to the appointed meeting place in the Child of Bethlehem. Amen.
Click on the link to see and hear the music video.
MUSIC VIDEO: Kirk Franklin: We Three Kings (Submitted by Michael Dyer)
IMAGE: Rubens: The Adoration of the Magi
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