“High on my list of favorite things is lighting the nativity star on our farm the day after Thanksgiving.
The star used to be one of the most popular Christian Christmas symbols. As a star shines light on a dark night, the nativity star represents the light of Jesus in a dark world. Since the beginning of time stars have been used for navigation. Over 2,000 years ago, one particular star guided the wise men (astrologers) to the promised Messiah. When they entered the house where the young child lived, they fell to their knees in holy awe and worshipped the Son of God. (Matthew 2).
There is nothing glamorous about the nativity star, but it radiates a silent holiness as it shines forth a message of remembrance, of hope and of promise. Sadly, it has been removed from most Christmas decorations. It no longer has the place of honor on top of Christmas trees or shines from rooftops. Santa has not stolen it’s glory, nor has it’s meaning been distorted; it has just simply, quietly, disappeared. The last several years I have looked for stars as we travel during the month of December. You can travel hundreds of miles and see just a handful.
I am reminded of the song “Light One Candle” written by Peter Yarrow and sung by Peter, Paul and Mary in the turbulent 60’s. It was written as a protest song but I found myself singing the chorus this week.
Light One Candle
Chorus
Don’t let the light go out
It’s lasted for so many years
Don’t let the light go out
Let it shine through our love and our tears.
I have lit my star.
May I challenge you to light one star?
If every Christian in America lit a star there would be millions of glowing, radiant stars giving testimony to the real meaning of Christmas, the birth of the promised Messiah, Jesus Christ.
I am the light of the world.
If you follow me, you will not walk in darkness but will have the light of life.
Jesus
(John 8:12)
Don’t let the light go out!
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