Following the Star

Pause

As we journey through Advent, we would be wise to remember that is in fact a journey – not just for the Biblical cast, but for us as well.

Prepare yourselves today to listen for the word and guidance of God as we, too, follow the star closer to the heart of God.

Listen

This is John’s testimony when the Jewish leaders in Jerusalem sent priests and Levites to ask him, “Who are you?”

John confessed (he didn’t deny but confessed), “I’m not the Christ.”

They asked him, “Then who are you? Are you Elijah?”

John said, “I’m not.”

“Are you the prophet?”

John answered, “No.”

They asked, “Who are you? We need to give an answer to those who sent us. What do you say about yourself?”

John replied,

I am a voice crying out in the wilderness, Make the Lord’s path straight, just as the prophet Isaiah said.”

John 1:19-23

Think

Jewish leaders had been waiting for signs of the prophet’s arrival for generations, and with John coming onto the scene the way he did, they were right to wonder if perhaps he was the one they were waiting for. So they sent some priests and Levites to him to question him.

John replied to their questions about his identity by quoting Isaiah, “I am a voice crying out in the wilderness, Make the Lord’s path straight.”

To make the path straight can also mean to clear a way, to prepare and provide. Sometimes that means we need to get out of the way in order for God to show up. We all have a role to play in our journey and the journey of others as we strive to know God better. Sometimes it is preparing the way or pointing others to God. What are things you need to clear out of the way to make room for God to arrive?

Melissa Kessler

Pray

God, help me to know when to make a way, and when to get out of the way so that your glory is made the center of every interaction. Help me to point others to your guiding light. Amen.

Go

Look today for the stars in your life, providing guidance along the journey towards the heart of God – your mission in this world.

And go, following bravely and joyfully, wherever the star may lead you as you make Christ’s presence in the world known.