The (17) Star that led the Magi to Christ is a symbol of grace which “prevents” or goes before them. It is that aspect of Grace which we focus on during Epiphany. Today, in the seventeenth week after Trinity, we discover that the (17) Star of grace not only “prevents” and leads us, but also follows us as we “grow in grace” on our earthly pilgrimage. That is, the (17) Star is both a symbol of hope, as in the Epiphany, and also of flourishing, in the spirit of the ninety second Psalm, which is the Old Testament Reading for today.
The Collect
Lord, we pray thee that thy grace may always prevent and follow us, and make us continually to be given to all good works; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Book of Common Prayer
Old Testament Reading
The righteous shall flourish like the palm tree: he shall grow like a cedar in Lebanon. Those that be planted in the house of the Lord shall flourish in the courts of our God. They shall still bring forth fruit in old age; they shall be fat and flourishing.
Psalm 92: 12-14
New Testament Reading
There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called on one hope of your calling; One Lord, one faith, one baptism, One God and Father of all, and through all, and in you all.
Ephesians 4: 4-6
Liturgical Affirmation
Ego sum lux mundi;
Ego sum lux mundi; ego sum radix, et genus David, stella splendida, et matutina.
I am the light of the world; I am the root and the offspring of David, and the bright and morning star.
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