As we navigate the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, it’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of tasks, lists, and obligations. Amid our busy lives, it becomes crucial to pause and reflect on the true essence of Christmas—the message of love, light, and the profound words of John the Baptist preparing the way of the Lord.
St Dingats in New Tredegar has a beautiful nativity window; one chilly evening on my way to the Christingle service, my mind was consumed with the myriad of tasks that needed my attention—decorations to be hung carols to be practised, emails to send and sermons to be finalized.
The weight of these responsibilities threatened to darken my view of Christmas.
Amid my racing thoughts, I glanced up at St. Dingats driving into the town. A solitary star emitted a warm and comforting glow shone through the window with the nativity scene. The simplicity of this sight, the star shining in the dark, acted as a gentle reminder of the age-old story we hold dear—the story of hope, love, and the anticipation of the arrival of the Savior.
As I glanced at that radiant star and the road, I felt a shift within me. The light emanating from the window illuminated the church and my path through the chaos of responsibilities.
It was as if the star was whispering to me, urging me to follow a different path this Christmas—one paved with love, guided by the light of Jesus.
John the Baptist’s words echoed in my mind, urging me to prepare the way for the Lord. The star in the window became a physical representation of that preparation—a symbol of focusing on what truly matters amidst the season’s chaos.
It wasn’t about the perfection of the decorations or the flawless execution of the service but about embracing the love and light that Christmas represents.
I give you this star for us to follow so we don’t get bogged down in the less critical stuff. Instead, let us prepare our hearts, just as John the Baptist prepared the way for the Lord. Follow the light of Jesus, not all the stuff and trapping and stress. When we start with Jesus the King, born in the stable, all other things will fall into place.
As we navigate the remaining days of Advent and approach the celebration of Christmas, let us remember to follow the light—the light of love, compassion, and the message of Christ’s birth. Like John the Baptist, we may prepare the way for the Lord in our hearts, allowing His love to shine brightly through us. In doing so, we rediscover the true magic of Christmas and share that magic with those around us, making this season truly special and meaningful.