The Epiphany of the Lord

01-04-2026Weekly ReflectionFr. Bing Colasito

In the Gospel, the Magi from the East, tasked by King Herod to seek the newborn Jesus, found themselves transformed by their encounter with Him. They came, they saw, and they were conquered - not by power, but by the humble presence of the Child Jesus. Their journey did not end at the manger; instead, it marked a new beginning. Choosing not to return to Herod, they went home "by another way," symbolizing a break from their old paths and a commitment to a new vision and mission.

At the Solemnity of the Epiphany, we recall how God revealed His Son as King not just of Israel, but of all nations. The Epiphany is a powerful reminder that God's plan of salvation is universal - open and inclusive to all, regardless of culture, religion, or background. It challenges us to examine our own hearts: How often do we limit our compassion or fail to reach out to those different from ourselves?

The Magi from the East are shining examples of spiritual openness and courage. They saw the Lord's star and set out to seek the glory of God in Jesus Christ, the newborn King. Their willingness and focus to follow Christ's guiding light model faith for all believers. Inspired by their words, "We saw His star at its rising and have come to do Him homage," we, too, are called to follow the STAR of Jesus. Let us nurture a constant longing to encounter the God of love, seek his light daily, and let it guide our actions.

When the Magi arrive in Bethlehem, the star leads them to the child Jesus, and JOY fills their hearts. The presence of Jesus brings joy and peace - the true sign of salvation. Their act of homage reminds us that the first duty of every Christian is to worship God. Worship involves offering, and the Magi show this by presenting gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Gold represents His kingship, frankincense His priesthood, and myrrh His prophetic mission and passion. Above all, the greatest gift we can offer God is ourselves. As St. Paul exhorts us: "Offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God" (Romans 12:1).

As disciples, we are called not only to be joyful receivers but also joyful givers, sharing our graces and faith with the world.

In the Nativity scene, Joseph and Mary keep their eyes fixed on Jesus. Their gaze is not distracted by their humble surroundings, the shepherds, the Magi, or even each other. The secret of true peace is found in this focus on adoration. In the same way, we are called to fix our eyes on Jesus - especially in the Eucharist - and on the mission He entrusts to us. Let us focus on the Lord and the purpose He gives our lives, trusting that in Him we find true joy and peace.