The Guidance of Divine Light: The Mystery Made Known by Revelation

Feast of the Epiphany of the Lord: January 07, 2024

Readings: Isaiah 60:1–6; Psalm 72:1–2, 7–8, 10–13; Ephesians 3:2–3, 5–6; Matthew 2:1–12

(The visit of the Magi to the Baby Jesus, Mary and Joseph)

 To listen to my audio-video reflections via YouTube, please click here: https://youtu.be/DE7-ucJED5s

We are in the freshness of the New Year 2024. With the arrival of the New Year, we could begin a fresh start where we have not been able, to a year ago. We form our destiny. There are chances and opportunities. There is nothing so-called "late" as such. Search for truth and a new beginning can start anytime. The only thing that we need on our part is our readiness to allow ourselves to be led by something that can open new avenues and better pastures. God is present in all those things holy and spirit-led things. This is what happened to those three Magi, who saw something on their journey. They followed the heavenly sign and brought them to the baby Jesus, Joseph, and Mary. They listened to the inner voice and thus saved the baby Jesus from the clutches of King Herod.  On this beautiful feast of the Epiphany of the Lord, the Word of God has a lot to reveal to us. 

1. See the light of Christ and give witness

Matthew 2:1–12  recounts the story of the Magi, or Wise Men, who traveled from the East to visit the newborn Jesus, guided by a star. In fact, the Feast of Epiphany, a celebration of the manifestation of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles is associated with this passage. The whole journey of the Magi symbolizes a search for spiritual enlightenment. They were ardent seekers of truth. As their desire intensified they followed nothing but only the star. If there is a burning desire within us then we remain focused. What matters is not the distractions and other struggles but the destiny that is in our hearts. The Epiphany or the revelation invites us to seek the light of Christ in our lives, trusting that it will guide us through the darkness of uncertainty and doubt.

The Magi's journey was not easy; it required perseverance, dedication, and a willingness to travel a great distance. Similarly, our spiritual journey may involve challenges and sacrifices. The Feast of Epiphany encourages us to embrace the path of faith with determination, trusting that the destination is worth the effort. That is why giving witness is not easy. But when we are focused, God gives his light to brighten us up so that darkness is taken away from us.

2. God meets us when we desire

St Ignatius of Loyola in his "Spiritual Exercises" tells us that any spiritual journey starts with an intense desire for God. If someone, who is willing to venture into this exercise first and foremost asks for a great desire and if is not there then one must ask for a grace of desire to desire. The Magi recognized the significance of the star and its connection to the birth of a king. This made them aware their great desire to get into the path of star. Their desire led them to so many places including the brutal and cruel Herod. When they doubted the path of the star, their inner desire kept them going without losing heart. Thus were able to meet the star of creation. 

In our lives too, we need this intense desire to meet God, come what may. Often giving up on the way seems to be the easy path. Actually, that is nothing but one's foolishness and stupidity not to walk the path less traveled. We need to imbibe openness and humility. The Epiphany calls us to be attentive to the signs of God's presence and to acknowledge the profound impact of Jesus on our lives.

3. God opens the mystery with a purpose

The Magi brought gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh to honor the newborn King. These gifts symbolize the essence of their hearts' devotion. Whatever we offer as gifts reflects who we are and the nature of our devotion to God. The offering of gifts is a symbol of our love, compassion, and service which come from the depths of our hearts. In fact, God knows what we need in our lives and at what time. God determines when to fulfill our wishes. He does so with a purpose. That is why we need to cultivate a sense of the spirit of discernment in our lives. The Magi knew exactly how best to return to their homeland without even meeting the barbarian Herod. Learning to recognize and avoid destructive paths can lead us to the true light of Christ. 

God does not approve of biases. He holds equally everyone with a special place for those who are distressed, poor, marginalized, and deprived. We see the inclusive nature of Christ's light. It is not only shepherds that came to worship baby Jesus but also the rich wise men. Christ welcomes everyone from all backgrounds and cultures. It challenges us to break down barriers and embrace the diversity within the human family under the common light of Christ. May this season be a time of enlightenment, transformation, and a deepening connection with the divine.

Questions for self-reflection

1. How attentive am I to signs and guidance from God in my life, as the Magi were led by the star to find Jesus?
2. Are there distractions or influences in my life that divert my attention from the worship and adoration due to Jesus, as the Magi were solely focused on Him?
3. Are there Herods in my life—negative influences or temptations—that I need to consciously avoid to protect my spiritual journey?
4. How can I develop a heart of gratitude and thanksgiving for the ways God directs and reveals Himself to me, just as He did for the Magi through the star?

Prayer based on Psalm 72

Heavenly Father,

May your justice and righteousness prevail in every corner of the earth, as the sun and moon endure through all generations. Grant our leaders the wisdom and discernment to govern with equity, ensuring that the vulnerable find refuge and the afflicted experience compassion. Let the mountains bear prosperity for all, and may the people flourish like the abundant crops of the field. May they know the peace that flows like a river and the righteousness that stretches to the ends of the earth.

Bless our leaders with compassion for the needy and the powerless, and empower them to uplift the oppressed. May they be as refreshing rain upon the thirsty ground, bringing forth the fruits of justice and mercy. In the name of your Holy Spirit, we pray.  Amen.

- Olvin Veigas, SJ

January 03, 2024