Collect. O God, who by the leading of a star didst on this day manifest thy only-begotten Son to the Gentiles, mercifully grant that we, who know thee now by faith, may be brought to the contemplation of thy glorious majesty. through the same Lord. . .”
Today, Jesus shows Himself to the world as God and the Lord of the world.
The Magi saw a star and set out immediately. Their faith was strong and sure. They had generous hearts. Their souls were ready to make the long, arduous journey. They didn’t give up although the star disappeared at one point.
My meditation today reminds me that when God urges us to greater generosity and closer union with Him, we need to be like the Magi and follow His urging with faith, promptness, selfless generosity, and perseverance. He is our Quest and we must not give up, even if the star of faith in our soul disappears and we feel an interior darkness. These periods of darkness are part of His will and so we must overcome them with a pure, naked faith. In other words, no matter what, we trust in Him.
Sometimes I pray, “Lord, what do you want from me?” The Feast of the Epiphany reveals some of the answers. He wants my co-operation. He wants me to pray and work for the conversion of those who are near to me (family and friends) and those are far away (strangers.) He wants the incense of prayer, the myrrh of suffering for the love of Him, and the gold of charity.
O Lord, please let Your star shine for me today so I will only take the road that leads directly to you.
Dr. Linda L. Powell 