Scripture Reflection for The Epiphany of the Lord
January 8, 2006
by Brandon Jubar
Star Light, Star Bright
When the magi from the east arrived in Jerusalem, they told King Herod that they had come to pay homage to the newborn king of the Jews. They explained, "We saw his star at its rising." It's interesting that this star was in the heavens for all to see, yet only these wise men followed its light. Perhaps the light of the star and the journey of the magi is a good metaphor to use when trying to understand the Church, the world, and our role in the evangelization of all nations.
A Savior for the World
In the readings this weekend, God announces to the world that a savior has been born -- a savior for all people, not just the Jews. Isaiah tells us, "Nations shall walk by your light, and kings by your shining radiance. Raise your eyes and look about; they all gather and come to you."
One incredible thing about being a Roman Catholic is that our Church is very diverse. We are not a church of one language, culture, class or ethnic group. We truly are a universal church; a church for all peoples. And when we gather around the Eucharist every Sunday, in Parishes around the world, we are enacting the image presented by Isaiah. In essence, all the nations are gathering before the glory of the Lord!
Jesus is the Guiding Light
In the Gospel reading, the magi -- men of a completely different land and culture -- follow the light of the star to find and greet the newborn king of the Jews. These strangers recognize the importance of Jesus' birth, while most of the people of his own land and culture do not.
For us today, Jesus is the star in the sky. His light shines forth through the darkness of the world, guiding people to his goodness. The wise men -- the magi -- were not Jews, yet they understood the coming of the savior from their own traditions and wisdom, for every religion looks forward to the day when all are drawn to the light in unity. We know that Jesus is the one from whom that light shines the brightest.
All Christians are Bearers of the Light
We know that we are called, through our baptism, to let the light of Christ shine through us. We are his hands and feet in the world, and we are the primary way that his love is shared. The trick is to let that light shine through us without being dimmed by our own biases -- our own agendas. If we can do that -- if we can let the light of Christ shine for others to see -- then they will understand. Like the magi, it won't matter what race, culture or nation they are from. They'll recognize the truth of God.
Life Applications:
How much do you know about other religions?
How do you feel about people who are not Christian?
How can you share the light of Christ with people who are not Roman Catholic?
Copyright 2006 by Brandon Jubar
All rights reserved.
|
