2021 Advent Devotional: In the Midst of Changing Ways – Many Gifts, One Spirit
Week 2: The Gift of Faith
Scripture: Philippians 3:9 – “Not having a righteousness of my own that comes through faith in Christ, the righteousness from God based in faith.”
Reflector: Connie Takamine
In this season, stars have an important role as a guiding light. It is thought that the magi were actually astronomers. Astronomy has played an important part in all religions since their beginnings, and the Vatican still has an official astronomer. Many of the planets and galaxies were identified even before Galileo developed the telescope in 1609. How did star gazers do this? They did it with keen observation and perseverance.
This is faith to me, perseverance. In a recent devotional I read, the writer said that faith also takes courage. In the midst of changing ways, faith, perseverance, and courage uphold us.
When I see the Boulder Star, I am reminded of a nursery rhyme I often recited, and I think it goes like this:
Star light, star bright
First star I see tonight,
I wish I may, I wish I might
Have the wish I wish tonight.
Be of courage! Bundle up and go outside tonight, find a star, and make a wish, for it makes no difference who you are.
Prayer: God of Light, may your light be a beacon to guide us through the vast changes we are facing. May we have the courage and perseverance to walk into a new future. Amen.