Light and Revelation – St. Nick’s News Jan 3, 2025

Full St. Nick’s News for January 3, 2025

Dear Friends,

On Sunday (really Monday but we will be a day early) we begin our journey through the liturgical season of Epiphany. This season invites us to reflect on light, revelation, and guidance. St. Nick’s takes on a tradition every year that has been growing in popularity over the last decade – the practice of receiving a “Star Word” on Epiphany. This practice connects the Magi’s star-guided journey to our own spiritual journeys, offering a simple yet profound way to deepen faith and focus for the coming year.

What Are Star Words?

Star Words are single words or phrases meant to serve as a guiding light throughout the year, much like the star that led the Magi to Jesus. These words are chosen on the Sundays closest to Epiphany (January 6th), and can be chosen prayerfully or picked randomly during our worship together. Some Star Word examples include, “hope,” “gratitude,” “peace,” “courage,” or “discipline”. Each word encourages contemplation and spiritual growth, challenging us to explore how God might be working in our lives in relation to that theme.

Why Are Star Words Important as a Spiritual Discipline?

1. Reflection and Focus: Star Words encourage us to focus on a specific aspect of our spiritual lives. They serve as a lens through which we can view our experiences, struggles, and joys.
2. Personal and Communal Growth: While a Star Word is a personal guide, sharing reflections with others fosters community and connection. Families, small groups, or congregations can use their words as conversation starters or prayer prompts.
3. Revelation and Guidance: Just as the Magi were guided by the star, our Star Words remind us to seek God’s direction in our daily lives. They invite us to be open to where God’s light is leading us.

How to Engage with Your Star Word

• Pray with It: Begin by prayerfully meditating on your Star Word. Ask God to reveal how this word might guide your year.
• Reflect Regularly: Keep your word visible in your home, journal, or workspace. Revisit it regularly and reflect on its significance in your life.
• Explore Scripture: Find Bible verses or stories connected to your word. For instance, if your word is “trust,” consider meditating on Proverbs 3:5-6.
• Embrace the Unexpected: Sometimes, a Star Word may seem confusing or irrelevant at first. Trust that it has been chosen for a reason and be open to its unfolding meaning over time.

Bringing the Tradition to Life for all ages and for those at home

This year, we have laminated blue star words for you. All ages are welcome to join in on this tradition. Our children are welcome to participate as parents introduce Star Words and find ways to have family discussions about faith and growth. If you join us online or are home bound, please contact Rev. Beth at 214-213-0739 via text or email her at revbeth@stnickshillcountry.org and the church will mail you a word.

A Year of Illumination

This is a simple tradition, and appeals to many (so if it does not appeal to your spiritual needs – feel free to skip the tradition) as it invites us to carry the light of Epiphany forward and sets up our new year with intentionality and focus. We are reminded in this practice that God’s guidance is present in both the ordinary and extraordinary moments of life. As we follow our Star Words this year, may we be drawn closer to God and to the abundant possibilities of faith.

If you haven’t yet experienced the joy of receiving a Star Word, perhaps this Epiphany season is the perfect time to start. Let it illuminate your path and inspire your spiritual journey—just as the star led the Magi to Christ so long ago.

God’s Peace, Love, and Blessings,
Beth+