Today is Dec. 16, Monday of the Third Week of Advent.
We hear in the readings for today’s Mass, “I see him, though not now; I behold him, though not near: A star shall advance from Jacob, and a staff shall rise from Israel” (Nm 24:17).
The star of Bethlehem shines as one of the most enduring symbols of Christmas. The celestial sign heralded the birth of Christ and led the Magi to the humble town of His nativity. Foretold long ago in the prophecy of Numbers, this star points to the Messiah, the one who would rise from Jacob to bring salvation to the world.
Throughout Bethlehem the star is a common symbol. Star Street, one of the city’s oldest commercial streets, connects the northern and southern parts of the Old City. Tradition holds it is the route the Magi followed to the grotto, where they presented their gifts to the Christ Child. Lined with 19th-century buildings, the street once hosted 98 shops before the Second Intifada in 2001 caused a sharp decline in tourism, closing nearly half. By 2008, the number of shops had rebounded to 63, but many today are imperiled because of the lack of pilgrims.
Altar of the Nativity
The Altar of the Nativity, first venerated during the Byzantine period, stands on the traditional site of Jesus’ birth. Above the altar are depictions of the Virgin and Child, the washing of Jesus, and the arrival of the shepherds. Beneath the altar, a star bearing the inscription “Hic de Virgine Maria Iesus Christus natus est” (“Here Jesus Christ was born of the Virgin Mary”), marks the spot of the Nativity.
The star of Bethlehem is more than a historical phenomenon; it is a symbol of hope. It reminds us that God is faithful to His promises. As we gaze at the star on our Christmas tree or over the Nativity scene in our home, or imagine its light in the Advent night, let us remember that this light still shines for us. It calls us to seek Christ, to follow Him with trust and perseverance, and to rejoice in the salvation He brings.
Let us pray,
Incline a merciful ear to our cry, we pray, O Lord, and, casting light on the darkness of our hearts, visit us with the grace of your Son. Who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, for ever and ever. Amen.
