Dear John,

On this final day of our reflections, we celebrate the Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord.

In Sacred Scripture, we see that even the cosmos proclaimed the Lord’s coming with the Star in the east. After the Star appeared, the Magi traveled far to see the Child Jesus. When they saw the Child with His mother, they bowed down in adoration.

They were encountering the living God.

In the same way, we should humble ourselves before God and fall down in worship. He created us and loves us more than we can imagine, and we owe Him everything.

Like the Magi, we can seek to encounter God every day. People are looking for something more, looking for more than what this world has to offer. We want to encounter something more, something beautiful, something good. We want to encounter our Beloved.

We can also imitate the Magi in their generosity. As they gave gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh, we can give to one another – not out of obligation or habit, but out of love. When we give gifts to our loved ones, to our parishes, and to charities, we should remember that everything we have was given to us by the Lord. And we should give with a full heart.

And, finally, on this Solemnity, let us remember that the Magi not only were seekers, but, most importantly, were finders. They found Him! We, too, have found Him “whom our soul loves” (cf. Song of Songs 3:4).

Here are today’s Mass readings:

First reading: Isaiah 60:1-6

Psalm: 72:1-2, 7-8, 10-13

Second reading: Ephesians 3:2-3, 5-6

Gospel: St. Matthew 2:1-12

Thank you for joining me with these Advent and Christmas reflections. May God bless you abundantly.

In Christ,

Father Joseph