let’s imitate the magi
january 5, 2024 | feast of the epiphany of the lord, Year C
Isaiah 60:1-6; Psalm 72; Ephesians 3:2-3, 5-6; Matthew 2:1-12
The Epiphany or the manifestation of the lord to all nations was a feast very dear to the heart of St. Vincent Pallotti. Like a rising star (cf. Num 24:17), Jesus comes to enlighten all peoples and to brighten the nights of humanity (Isaiah 60:1-6). Now, by his light, all nations shall walk for he is the response to our restlessness. And how deep is our yearning and restlessness on this earth. The magi, through their journey of faith, invite us to discover in Jesus the true source of life and love and the true happiness and joy even in the midst of crisis and difficulties. The magi are at the search of their Saviour, the Lord carrying very symbolic gifts for the newborn child. Their journey found total meaning in adoration and worship.
“They prostrated themselves and did homage. They opened their treasures and offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.”
The three gifts manifest the identity of Jesus. Gold represents Jesus’s kingship and royalty; Frankincense represents Jesus’ divinity and is associated with worship. Myrrh, represents Jesus’ humanity, especially his death and burial. Today, the Lord calls us to imitate the Magi. Like the Magi, let us fall down and entrust ourselves to God in the wonder of worship. Let us worship God, not ourselves; let us worship God and not the false idols that are seduced by the allure of prestige or power, or the allure of false news; let us love God and not bow down before passing things and evil thoughts.
Prayer: O God, by the leading of a star you manifested your only Son to the peoples of the earth: Lead us, who know you now by faith, to your presence, where we may see your glory face to face.
Fr. Georges Roger BIDZOGO SAC
Living the Gospel: Being the light of Christ in the world today!
Today Jesus, the newborn King, manifests himself as the light of the nations. He will invite his disciples in the sermon of the mount to be the light, which dispel darkness and help people.
"You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden". (Mt 5:14-16).
How can I become the light of the world throughout the coming year 2025
In Matthew 25: 31-46, Jesus invites us to live out our faith by accomplishing good works: feeding the hungry, visiting the sick and being kind to one another.
Maybe you can share the testimony of the goodness of the Lord and the truth of the Gospel. Sharing your story to others. This can enlighten them on their journey. This can also bring hope and encouragement to others.
Trying to invite others to follow Christ by sharing the word of God with them and spending time with them and listening to them.
Fr. Georges Roger BIDZOGO SAC