We have been thinking about currency. A crossroads for us all. No going back! Could life be better? Will skies grow darker? Time and our pockets will tell. Truth remains.
We reflect this week on astronomer kings making a long journey in search of truth. "Where is the Infant King? We saw his star at its rising and we have come to do him homage." They had gold (always sound currency), incense and myrrh. They may well have carried other gifts more useful to a new-born baby.
Herod was perturbed as evil people always are by the approach of truth. The king called the learned scholars. The scripture books of truth were close at hand. The truths of prophecy were clear to read. The scribes could interpret the facts. A strange and vivid reminder that when we elect to do evil it is (so often) because we choose to ignore the beautiful, the good and the true and elect to turn aside and, in our chosen blindness, sadly, no longer see. They left Herod's house of hatred. The guiding star in all its radiant glory appeared once more and led them safely to the Son of Mary. The faithful Magi were filled with joy. They paid their reverence to the Infant King and, as outward signs of inward love, they offered the treasures carried from afar.
Warned by inspiration, they chose another way that led them safely back to their own country. This may have meant a more difficult and pain-filled journey. Obedience to their unique calling was a vocation costing not less than everything. Of this poets and painters have never ceased to remind us. The feast of their fidelity is the real Christmas for millions across the globe. For us, the Star of Bethlehem still shines to guide away from all that is ugly, evil and false and lead ever closer to the eternal truth that alone can set us free and guide us safely home.
Thirty years on, the saving light shines again by Jordan's banks. John the Baptist points to the Redeeming Christ, as the Lamb of God taking away the sins of the world.
As we enter another year of the once-made journey we are reminded of the one valid currency that endures. We were baptised in the mystery of our grace-filled calling into the life, fully human, that will be forever a light shining in the darkness. We pause in stillness to reflect in faith on the cleansing water, the spotless robe, the lighted candle and the Saving Word. "Carry this life aloft and undimmed to the end of your pilgrim journey. . .May you come to life's end with the robe of Baptism still unstained." The people in the hill country asked excitedly about the infant John the Baptist. "What do you think this child will turn out to be?" Of you, of me that too was asked. What indeed? For answer, the time is now!
We gaze in wonder on images of strange euro coins. We listen to the majestic truth-filled call of Isiaiah: "I the Lord have called You to serve the Cause of Right! I have taken You by the hand. I have formed You! I have appointed You as a guide to my people and a Light to the nation! To open the eyes of the blind, To free captives from prison, And to those who live in darkness, from dismal dungeon and from all lost hope!"
Here is currency to last.
Let us pray: Loving merciful Father, the light of a new star in heaven announces your saving love. May the light of your salvation dawn in our hearts and keep us always open to your redeeming grace. We make our prayer through Christ our Lord. Amen.
F.MacN.