star light, star bright,first star i see tonight
"Prove yourselves innocent and straightforward, children of God beyond reproach in the midst of a twisted and depraved generation — among whom you shine like the stars in the sky while holding fast to the word of life." —Philippians 2:15-16
It's during the darkness of night that the stars in the sky stand out and shine most brightly. At night, sailors can navigate their ships by using a sextant to fix their position from the stars. Moreover, groups of stars called constellations enable sailors to more easily recognize their position in a raging sea.
We live in a time of moral darkness. God is calling each of us to shine the light of Christ in this current darkness to provide a bright moral compass for the lost (Mt 5:14). In times of great darkness, we who have been set on fire with Jesus' light cannot give in to discouragement (2 Cor 4:1). When you feel you're burning out like a smoldering wick (Mt 12:20), know that "Christ will give you light" (Eph 5:14).
Often, Jesus lights us up by calling us into Christian community with others who let His light shine. These groups of believers form "constellations" by which the lost can find their way to Jesus. Presentation Ministries is such a constellation, as are other lay associations, communities, and ministries who join together to focus the light of Christ like a beacon to cut through the darkness.
Be "set aflame and burning bright" (Jn 5:35) with the light of Christ. Join with others to pierce the darkness. "The light shines on in darkness, a darkness that did not overcome it" (Jn 1:5).
Prayer: Jesus, consume me with the fire of Your love (Heb 12:29).
Promise: "None of you can be My disciple if he does not renounce all his possessions." —Lk 14:33
Praise: Because of Fr. Joe's example, more than one young man has considered and accepted a call to the priesthood.
Reference: (This teaching was submitted by a member of our editorial team.)
(For more information on becoming a co-worker of Presentation Ministries, call our Ministry Center at 513-662-JESU.)
Rescript: †Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, May 1, 2008
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