For centuries, astronomers have tried to determine which celestial body was the star of Bethlehem. In the book of Numbers, it was prophesied that the star not only led the wise men to Jesus, but that the star was Jesus (Nm 24:17). Jesus is "the Morning Star shining bright" (Rv 22:16). Paul taught that not only was Jesus like a star, but also we, Jesus' disciples, are "like the stars in the sky while holding fast to the word of life" "in the midst of a twisted and depraved generation" (Phil 2:15, 16).

We are either Herods or stars, either in the kingdom of darkness or the kingdom of light (see Col 1:13). In the physical world there is twilight, but not in the spiritual world. The light is either on or off. There is no in-between.

Therefore, "rise up in splendor! Your light has come, the glory of the Lord shines upon you. See, darkness covers the earth, and thick clouds cover the peoples; but upon you the Lord shines, and over you appears His glory" (Is 60:1-2). "Awake, O sleeper, arise from the dead, and Christ will give you light" (Eph 5:14). "There was a time when you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Well, then, live as children of light" (Eph 5:8). "You are the light of the world" (Mt 5:14).

Rescript:  †Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, June 30, 2014

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