A Star to Guide Our Way

Today’s first reading tells of the little known prophet Balaam. He is best known for his prophecy foretelling that “A star shall advance from Jacob.” This prophecy is often interpreted as referring in part to the star of Bethlehem seen at the birth of Jesus. The readings today remind us that God has a plan for all of history. If we are going to find fulfilment and happiness then we need to conform our lives to that plan. We need to follow the star.