Nougat 15

Hello my dears

On Friday, I recall mentioning the lighting of the Jewish menorah for Hanukkah during our Advent service. The lighting of candles has a very special place in several religious contexts, and often symbolizes the triumph of good over evil, or serves to remind the faith community of God’s presence in our lives. In the Moravian tradition, with which I am now becoming familiar, there is no recognition of Advent without a star. My understanding of the tradition says that the star is not so much about God’s presence with us as it is an invitation. Consider today’s Holy Nougat which for me clarifies God’s invitation to each of us.

“saying, “Where is the One who has been born King of the Jews? For we saw His star in the east and have come to worship Him.” When King Herod heard, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him.”

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭2:2-3‬ ‭TLV‬‬

One Star.

Two encounters.

Two responses.

The people (who seemed to have hailed from the East) saw the Star and knew immediately it was special. So much so, they gathered ALL they had set aside for that very special season, put everything else on hold and followed the Star. They might have been rerouted prior; but they definitely lost their bearings when the star hovered over Bethlehem (I definitely can relate: my GPS system had me going in circles in Germany for close to half hour searching for an address hidden in plain sight!). And the magi, recognizing that there was a seat of power, did what any wise (read smart) persons would; they sought audience with the One they had traveled for miles to worship.

King Herod, aware that he was instituted as ruler during the turbulent formative years of the Roman Empire, knew that his seat was temporary. His throne was at risk and his own life was forever threatened by the presence of insurgents. His was a fighting life. A visit to his palace by foreigners plied with gifts would be cause for suspicion. The confirmation he required came with the mention of a Star hovering over his jurisdiction. A Star that, according to the strangers AND his own astrologists, could signal his overthrow.

Not a good or safe place to be!

The Star was not God, but like John, it pointed the way to God. The Magi chose to Follow; Herod opted for Fear. Both acted in Faith (they both believed the sign, despite the difference in response).

These days we have many Stars pointing the Way to Christ. There are two decisions for us to make in response.

Do we believe that Christ’s life, death and resurrection point to the return of Christ?

How shall we respond – in Fear, securing our earthly thrones; or by Following; selecting all we have set aside for such a time as this to worship in Spirit and in Truth?

Oh come! Let us adore Him!

In Christ’s love and grace . . .