“Why did the Magi set off from afar to go to Bethlehem? The answer has to do with the mystery of the ‘star’ which they saw ‘in the East’ and which they recognized as the star of the “King of the Jews,” that is to say, the sign of the birth of the Messiah. So their journey was inspired by a powerful hope, strengthened and guided by the star, which led them toward the King of the Jews, toward the Kingship of God himself.” – Pope Benedict XVI

Why a star? Why was that the sign God chose to lead the Magi to the Savior? Why do we still use stars and twinkling lights to celebrate Christmas today? Jesus is the light of the world! The world had been stained dark with sin, and it was only getting darker, but just like a single candle in a pitch black room, a single light can make all the difference. St. John tells us that “a light shines in the darkness and the darkness has not overcome it.” Once the light of Jesus started to shine in our world, nothing could ever cover it up again. When you see stars and lights this Christmas, let them remind you of Christ who brings us light when life seems the darkest.