Our Star

Philippians 4:4-7 (NRSV)
Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Jesus spoke to them, saying, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life."
-John 8:12 (NRSV)

I was busy one afternoon helping my family decorate the house and put up a Christmas tree in the living room. We decorated the tree with lights and glitter, and finally we placed a big, shiny star on the top.

As I sat back to admire the lights and glitter, it dawned on me that Jesus is the light of my life. He shines in my life with all the blessings of good health, a loving family, a job that I enjoy, good friends, peace, joy, love, financial blessings, food on the table, a roof over my head, and clothes to wear.

These and similar blessings are reason for a spirit of praise and thanksgiving. Rejoicing in the Lord not only makes us glad but also helps us begin to understand something of God's greatness and creativity in all things. As I looked at the star on top of the Christmas tree, I remembered and acknowledged that Jesus is the real reason for the Christmas season. He is the star, the light, in my life.

by Agnes Lim Miin (Singapore)