Raise us up and draw us to your perfect light ~ Mt 2:2

 

Readings

 
Psalm 139:1-10 – Your right hand shall hold me fast

2 Timothy 1:7-10 – This grace… has now been revealed through the appearing of our Saviour Christ Jesus
 

Reflection

 

In this fragile and uncertain world, we look for light. We look for the good within ourselves, but often we are so overwhelmed by our weakness that hope fails us. Our confidence rests in God, who in wisdom, enables us to hope for his mercy. We are surprised when it comes in human form: Christ is the light in our midst! God’s gift to us is a ‘spirit of power, and love’. We are drawn forward on the way to this perfect light  by God’s Holy Spirit, not by relying on our own strength and ability.

In the midst of darkness, the star from the East penetrates the depths of the darkness that separates us from one another. The star’s light continues to shine and to change the face of history. Throughout the ages, by the lives of Christ’s followers, the world has come to know the hope that is inspired by the Holy Spirit. And the Risen One continues to shine, like a beacon guiding all into this perfect light and overcoming the darkness which separates us from one another.

The desire to overcome the darkness that separates us compels us to pray and work for Christian unity.
 

Prayer

 
Creator of light,
illumine our path by the light of Christ who moves before us and leads us.
May he be a beacon for our pilgrimage.
Enlighten us and dwell within us.
Guide us to discover a manger in our hearts where a great light still shines.
We thank you for the gift of that unfading Star, Jesus Christ, our Lord and Saviour.
Heal our divisions and draw us closer to the Light that we may find our unity in him.
Amen.
 

Questions for Reflection

 
Reflecting on the past year –

  • Global: What could the role of the Church be in proclaiming the Good News of the Gospel in a world where there is so much injustice?
  • Local: Where have you seen signs of hope in your community, especially during a time of pandemic?
  • Personal: Where have you sought ‘the light’ in the midst of darkness?