From the Parish Priest – Fr. Romey Rosco
What might that star have been that guided the Wise Men to the Christ Child? Astronomers have studied the heavens ever since, and wondered what could have taken place at about the time of Jesus’ birth.
Some say it may have been a supernova (or new star). Such a star, when exploding into birth, gives out a great light that could last for weeks, even months, sometimes visible even in the daytime. Supernovas are discovered at the rate of about a dozen a year, but rarely are they visible to the naked eye — one would need telescopic equipment to see them.
Others suggest a comet. Comets appear even more rarely. Halley’s Comet has appeared about every 76 years since 240 BC. Its closest appearance to the date of Christ’s birth was in 12 or 13 BC.
Why can’t we just accept that it was God’s intervention in His creation for His very special purpose of bringing those who “worshipped the stars” to be “taught by a star to worship the Sun of Righteousness” (from the Tropar of the Nativity): Jesus Christ Who has brought light into the world darkened by sin.
When you and I were born, there was probably no heavenly phenomenon marking our birth. So, there is no point in us looking back to determine why we were born. Better we should look ahead. And as we look ahead to the New Year, our guiding star should be Jesus Christ. Stay in His Light, and you will find purpose.
From The Weekly Bulletin, Vol. XL No.53, 29 December 2013
Sts. Peter & Paul Romanian Orthodox Church, Dearborn Heights MI
