‘Thought for the Day’ Sunday 4th January summary:
Epiphany is all about light that guides and prompts action, rather than mere decoration. Matthew’s gospel tells the story of the Magi, who represent outsiders noticing and following the star that leads them to Jesus, and illustrates the importance of paying attention to what truly matters in life. (Rutger Bregman’s book ‘Moral Ambition’ was also referred to.)
5 points on a star - we’ll look at 5 elements of this story and what it can teach us:
1. Noticing the light: The Magi's long-term observation prepares them to see the star, emphasising that the key is whether we are attentive to the light in our own lives.
⏸️ Question: What does ‘aiming your life toward what matters’ look like for you right now—at whatever stage of life you are at, and at the start of this new year? Take a couple of minutes to consider this.
2. Following the light: The Magi act on their insight, wisdom and experience, leaving behind comfort to seek truth, contrasting their ambition for truth with Herod's ambition for control.
3. Bringing our gifts into the light: The Magi offer diverse gifts to Jesus, reminding us that we should bring what we have, regardless of its nature or significance.
⏸️ Question: What is one gift—experience, skill, perspective, or even hard-earned wisdom—that you bring right now?
4. Seeing clearly: The Magi’s encounter with Jesus sharpens their perspective, leading them to act with integrity and refuse to return to Herod, highlighting that moral ambition often manifests quietly. Margaret Mead said: “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has.” The movement to abolish the slave trade began in the 17th century, with just 12 British Quakers.
5. Going home by another road: The Magi's choice to return home differently symbolises the transformative power of recognising and following the true light of Christ in our lives.
⏸️ What might taking/ travelling ‘a different road’ look like for you this week—is there a small shift in attitude, attention, or action that you can make?