This Sunday we celebrate the feast of the Epiphany of the Lord. On this day, we focus on the wise men, the Magi who were guided by a star while on a difficult journey to encounter the Lord. They faced many risks and obstacles on their journey. These risks and obstacles included the danger inherent in traveling on a difficult and arduous journey. They probably battled the hot blazing sun by day and the freezing cold at night. They were probably, at times, hungry, frustrated, and tempted to turn back. Yet, they persevered on their journey to encounter Christ.
Like the wise men, Pope Francis reminded us that we are also on a journey, a journey of faith. As reported in the media outlet, “Catholic News Service”, he stated, “Let us set out anew from God; let us seek from him the courage not to lose heart in the face of difficulties, the strength to surmount all obstacles.” He further noted, “We need to let ourselves walk in friendship with the Lord, we need his love to sustain us, and the light of his word to guide us, like a star in the night.”
As we reflect on these words, and as we continue our faith journey, we may encounter obstacles in the form of friends, co-workers and even loved ones who subject us to ridicule because we dare to further search for the Lord in our lives. In addition, we may encounter those in our society who do not want to include a place for the Lord in our marriages, in our homes, or in our schools. We may also have to deal with our own pride, stubbornness, and selfishness which may be serious obstacles for us.
Fortunately, like the wise men, we do not undertake our spiritual journey alone. Like these wise men, we are part of a community, a family of faith. We journey and persevere as a community of faith despite the risks and obstacles that we may encounter on a daily basis. As a community of faith, we can assist each other in overcoming the many obstacles we face. We need each other’s guidance; we need each other’s support; we need each other’s encouragement; we need each other’s prayers.
Pope Francis has challenged us, as Catholics, to be a more integral part of the Church in the past. He spoke of the need for community, the bond of unity and sharing that should mark the lives of all Christians on their spiritual journey. He encouraged the faithful to embrace “the joy to live in harmonious communion.”
As we celebrate the feast of the Epiphany of the Lord, and as the New Year progresses, we are invited to heed the words of Pope Francis and strive to further encounter the Lord in some profound and personal way.