The Solemnity of Epiphany evokes images of three magi or wise men searching for the Infant Jesus. Despite a perilous journey, with eyes fixed on a star, they arrive at their destination.
Two contemporary movies describe the magi’s journey. The familiar The Fourth Wise Man narrates the story of a magus, Artaban, who was left behind and spends his life searching for Jesus. Ultimately, he does find and pays homage to the adult Jesus on the road to Calvary, not with gold, frankincense and myrrh but with a lifetime of charitable deeds. The lesser known Catching a Star describes the sacrifices made by Gaspar, Melchior and Balthazar in becoming magi, foregoing one dream in order to pursue another and evading the jealous King Herod following their visit to the stable.
A popular Christmas card contains an image of the magi traveling to Bethlehem with the caption “wise men (and wise women) still seek Him.” We are the wise men and wise women. Like Gaspar, Melchior and Balthazar we are attentive to the signs of the times. Making Jesus the goal of our earthly journey is a matter of choice. Like Artaban we offer Him not gold, frankincense and myrrh but a lifetime of charitable deeds; for whatever we did for others, we did for Him! In all our journeys, may the light of Christ, which each of us has been gifted with, shine before all and make our world a brighter and more welcoming place in this new year.
Blessings as we journey into the New Year of 2021!
Sister Marcella Louise Wallowicz, CSFN
