Close to the Star

As the days of December speed by, we draw closer to the star, the symbol guiding us to Christ's birth. On this journey, I am reminded of all the things that distract us, that cause detours and delays in our journey. Things that threaten to overwhelm us or block our path. Not things you might think, like holiday shopping or parties or baking cookies. No not those things. Even though they may pull us at times away from the center of Christmas they can also be joyous occasions of sharing and fellowship.

I'm thinking more of the hard truths of life, the things we have no control over and threaten to capsize that boat that we are afraid to get out of anyway. Things like death, depression, hunger, cruelty, anxiety, and injustice.  Each seeking to rob us on our journey to Christmas. To rob us of the quiet peace, the glorious gift, given to us by the Christ Child.

Do not despair. The journey to Christmas doesn't just happen in December. It doesn't end on January 6th with Epiphany. You don't have to fear you have missed it, that somehow it's passing you by. 

The journey to Christmas is ongoing. We seek the Christ Child, in many ways all our lives. Do not be discouraged. The star is always there for anyone who seeks him, not just during the brisk cold days of December but every day. 

Hugs to each of you as we draw closer to the star. The star shines bright and we will always be guided by it.