Gospel Reading: Mt. 2:1-12
There are those who say that the focus of Christmas should not be on gift-giving. However, if we think about it, gift-giving is fundamental to Christmas. As St. John tells us, “God so loved the world that He gave us His Only Son (John 3:16),” A tremendous gift!
Today’s Gospel is very familiar. Even hymns have been written about it. Astrologers from the East saw His Star and set out on their journey to Bethlehem to worship the Newborn King. Arriving at the manger, these Magi offered Him their treasures of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. They gifted Jesus with earthly treasures, but throughout His Life, Our Lord chose to remain poor. Money, wealth, or status are not important to Him, but how we love and care for others is. The Christmas Season heightens compassion and concern for others, but what happens when the Magi return to their country, the shepherds to their fields, and the decorations to the garage or attic? Howard Thurman, an African-American theologian, noted, “Now the real work of Christmas begins.”
Many figures other than the Holy Family can be found in the Nativity scenes: angels, shepherds, wise men, assorted animals, and perhaps even a little drummer boy who gave his best by sharing his talent. What have we brought to the manger? The gift that God wants in any season is our hearts, our love. That was the gift of the shepherds. They brought themselves.
The true meaning of Christmas is best illustrated in a favorite movie of mine, The Fourth Wise Man, adapted from a Henry van Dyke short story. The fourth wise man, Artaban, also follows the star to Bethlehem, bearing three precious jewels – a sapphire, a ruby, and a pearl – to offer to the Newborn Jesus. In his travels to catch up with the other Magi, Artaban is always one step behind. While traveling to meet up with Caspar, Melchior, and Balthazar, Artaban reluctantly uses these gems to pay for a stranger’s medical expenses, to bribe a Roman soldier in order to save an infant from the Holy Innocents massacre, and to rescue a young girl from slavery.
For 33 years, Artaban travels throughout Judea, helping those in need while continuing his search for the King he longs to meet. His journey eventually leads him to Jerusalem at the time of Jesus’ crucifixion. An earthquake hit the city, fatally injuring Artaban. As he lies dying, Artaban finally meets the King he had sought all his life. Artaban hears the voice of Jesus, who assures Artaban that every act of love and mercy he performed for others was indeed done for Him.
So, what can we give Jesus throughout this new year? We can spend time with Him in prayer, Eucharistic Adoration, and participating in the Eucharistic Liturgy. We can give Him the gift of ourselves, a gift expressed in love, concern, and compassion for others through the corporal works of mercy. When we do, the work of Christmas has truly begun.
As we journey through 2026, may we have the faith and spirit of adventure of the Magi and the simplicity of the shepherds, so that every encounter and event may be an “epiphany.”
Sister Marcella Louise Wallowicz, CSFN
