The biblical saga of the magi, as found in the Gospel of Matthew, is worthy of rereading each year. It is a saga filled with hope, wonder and a guiding star.
Having worked so closely with business professionals and CEOs through the years, I have learned that most companies have what they call a guiding star—a focal point that guides the company or keeps everyone striving toward the same goals. A guiding star, or a north star is vitally important to any organization.
Of course, this is true for youth groups, also. We have our guiding principles, our points of light, our aspirations. As we consider the story of the magi, perhaps we can take a lesson from these distant cousins. They followed a star and found a Savior. They stepped out in faith, and put action in their plan. They also had to make daily decisions, plan ahead and continue to preserver through difficulties and roadblocks. Youth ministry also could be described this way.
In this new year, consider your high marks—your shining stars. Certainly, you have your celebrations and your plans. There might be goals you have set for the new year. Now you need to set out on the journey of fulfilling them. It’s one day at a time, one week at a time—but you must set out if you are to reach the destination. What is your first step? Your fifth? Your ninth?
Stay focused on your star. It’s still shining, and you will reach it if you persevere.
