Epiphany: Finding the Star of Our Lives

Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord: January 05, 2025

Readings: Isaiah 60:1–6; Psalm 72:1–2, 7–8, 10–11, 12–13; Ephesians 3:2–3, 5–6; Matthew 2:1–12

 To listen to my audio-video reflections via YouTube, please click here: https://youtu.be/n5QclcKZG_c 

We have just begun the new year 2025. Our hearts are full of hope and enthusiasm as we embark on another calendar year. Our life is measured by the years but also by the way we live. So the year 2025 is going to make a difference in our lives. The resolutions or promises that we have made as we enter into the new year are to be kept and followed diligently so that we can improve or make progress. To spend our time to the best, we have to make plans. We must have dreams and of course, we need to dream bigger. Our life is fascinating when we do things, which bring peace and joy, surprise and consolation to us. Life becomes meaningful and worthy of its gift when we make the best of it and when opportunities are made use of. The three kings who visit the baby Jesus give us that hope. Despite their lack of knowledge about the whereabouts of Jesus, they were able to meet and pay homage to the great wonder of the world.

1. The Universal Call of God

The story of the Magi journeying to pay homage to the Christ Child in Matthew 2:1–12 is one of the fascinating episodes among the infancy narratives of Jesus. It is filled with rich imagery and deep truths about God’s revelation to the world. The Magi, wise men from the East, represent the nations and peoples beyond Israel. This means that salvation is not confined to one group but extends to all humanity. God’s call transcends boundaries of culture, language, religion, race, and nationality. This epiphany invites us to embrace the universality of God’s love and extend it to those around us, especially those who seem different from us.

The Magi’s journey was marked by uncertainty, perseverance, and faith. Guided by a star, they ventured into the unknown, driven by a deep desire to encounter the divine. We are also called to be seekers and pilgrims. In this life journey, we are called to give our best even when it is something small or insignificant. In our faith journey, it is Jesus Christ who shows us light and success. We must embrace God's loving gifts, and talents and make them grow and bear fruit.

2. Called to be differentiators

The gifts of the wise men gold, frankincense, and myrrh are rich in symbolism. Gold, a symbol of kingship, acknowledges Jesus as the King of Kings. Frankincense, used in worship, signifies His divinity. Myrrh, used for embalming, foreshadows His sacrificial death. Like the Magi, we are called to offer the best that we have and what others cannot offer. Whatever we do must be a unique one, differentiating from others. In the business world, if the product or a company is not a differentiator, then it will not survive long. We must not copy someone and offer them. We should not be simply imitators instead initiators; it means someone who brings novelty, beauty, and aesthetics that capture the imagination of others. 

God wants us as we are and not what others wish us to be. After encountering Christ, the Magi return home by a different route. This detail is symbolic of the transformative power of meeting Jesus. When we encounter Him, we cannot go back the same way; our lives are forever changed. The Epiphany reminds us that true worship leads to transformation, calling us to walk new paths of love and mercy, justice and peace.

3. Life at the service of others

The feast of Epiphany enables us to rediscover the worth of our life. Living for the sake of living is not worthwhile. In our life, we may have to crisscross different paths, and walk less travelled paths, but will have to arrive at the same destiny which is true, eternal and life-giving. The Magi walked similar paths. As wise men or kings, they had everything but chose something that would bring them more life and  better purpose. They recognized the worth of life not remaining in the same place but finding someone who is greater and who would give them purpose in life. 

In Jesus, we find the treasure of our life. In reading and meditating on the Word of God, we find meaning in our lives. We receive blessings from God for allowing the Word of God to sink into our hearts. Just like the Magi, we too can find the star of Bethlehem bringing hope, peace, and salvation to all. When we belong to Christ there is no fear or hostility.  We pray for that gift of authenticity and star of eternity.

Few questions for self-reflection

1. What "stars" or signs in my life guide me toward Christ? Am I attentive to them?
2. Do I recognize Christ in unexpected or humble places in my life?
3. What gifts can I offer to Jesus in my daily life?
4. Am I courageous enough to share the joy of encountering Christ with those around me?

Prayer based on Psalm 72

O God of justice and compassion, grant Your wisdom to those who lead, that they may rule with righteousness and defend the poor with integrity. Let peace flow abundantly in our days, like rain nourishing the earth, and may Your justice endure from generation to generation.

May all nations bow before your greatness, and leaders offer their service in humility, for You rescue the needy who call out to You, and the oppressed who have no helper. You are the defender of the weak and the saviour of the afflicted, may we, too, mirror Your love and mercy, bringing hope and healing to a world in need. We make this prayer in Jesus' Holy Name, Amen.

- Olvin Veigas, SJ

03 January 2025