The Epiphany of the Lord

When Jesus therefore was born in Bethlehem of Juda, in the days of king Herod, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem. Saying, Where is he that is born king of the Jews? For we have seen his star in the east, and are come to adore him. And king Herod hearing this, was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him. And assembling together all the chief priests and the scribes of the people, he inquired of them where Christ should be born. But they said to him: In Bethlehem of Juda. For so it is written by the prophet: And thou Bethlehem the land of Juda art not the least among the princes of Juda: for out of thee shall come forth the captain that shall rule my people Israel. Then Herod, privately calling the wise men, learned diligently of them the time of the star which appeared to them; And sending them into Bethlehem, said: Go and diligently inquire after the child, and when you have found him, bring me word again, that I also may come to adore him. Who having heard the king, went their way; and behold the star which they had seen in the east, went before them, until it came and stood over where the child was. And seeing the star they rejoiced with exceeding great joy. And entering into the house, they found the child with Mary his mother, and falling down they adored him; and opening their treasures, they offered him gifts; gold, frankincense, and myrrh. And having received an answer in sleep that they should not return to Herod, they went back another way into their country.
Matthew 2:1-12 (Douay-Rheims Bible)

Prayer Reflection

Dear Father today we celebrate the coming of the three Wise Men, who followed the star to Bethlehem. They came in honor of your Son. Traveling far to bring gifts as if for a King. And a Divine one at that too. We in our time often go to great lengths to find you also. That's when we fail to notice you in our own Tabernacles awaiting us as you did the Magi. We travel far not always seeing what's in front of our own eyes when we go to Mass. And for many this time of year is the only Mass they visit. Yet we go in search of you throughout the year, not once gazing at the star that shines when the Host is elevated, the light of the world.