Today is Jan. 5, the Solemnity of the Epiphany.
In the readings for today’s Mass, we read, “And behold, the star that they had seen at its rising preceded them, until it came and stopped over the place where the child was. They were overjoyed at seeing the star, and on entering the house they saw the child with Mary his mother. They prostrated themselves and did him homage” (Mt 2:9-11).
In Bethlehem, where the Magi knelt before the Christ Child, we are reminded that their journey to adore Him is not just a story from the past but the beginning of a great pilgrimage through history. The Wise Men, guided by the star, represent all who seek the truth of God, and their journey is a call for us to become pilgrims of faith, drawn to the Light that has come into the world.
The Magi were men of restless hearts, searching for something beyond worldly knowledge and success. They longed for what is essential: to know God and His purpose for humanity. Their outward journey was an expression of an inner pilgrimage, a search for meaning, truth, and the ultimate fulfillment found in Christ.
Restlessness leads to faith
In this way, the Magi teach us that faith begins with a restlessness, a search for God. Like them, we are called to leave behind false securities and the comforts of the familiar to embark on a journey toward Christ. Their courage to follow the star, despite uncertainty and ridicule, inspires us to trust God’s guidance and seek Him with determination.
The Magi were guided by the star to Bethlehem, but their journey did not end in Bethlehem. After encountering the Christ Child, they returned home by another way, transformed by the light they had seen. The Magi, who once were guided by the star, found the true light which enlightens every man” (Jn 1:9), and changed by that light, they, in turn, became lights for others.
This is what it means to be a Christian: to seek Christ, to follow Him and to be transformed by his love. This pilgrimage of the magi to Christ continues today; all the world is present here in Bethlehem. And for that matter, every time we draw near to Him in prayer, in Eucharistic adoration, the sacraments or acts of love, we participate in this great procession of faith.
May the graces of this Christmas make you true lights of the Gospel for the world!
Let us pray,
O God, who on this day revealed your Only Begotten Son to the nations by the guidance of a star, grant in your mercy that we, who know you already by faith, may be brought to behold the beauty of your sublime glory. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, for ever and ever. Amen.
