Fr. Rick’s One Minute Homily for Sunday – 01-02-2022 Epiphany of the Lord

Matthew 2:1-12 – https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/010222.cfm   

HEROD AND THE WISE MEN – DIRECTION TELLS THE WHOLE STORY

It is easy to see the contrast between King Herod and the Wise Men in the gospel. It is true that both were single-minded but were going in different directions. Herod followed a star as well, himself. He was his own star, and nothing got in His way, especially a newborn baby king. We know he was so consumed with his own plans for his life that the murder of innocent boys under the age of two didn’t faze him a bit. 

 The Three Wise Men had a similar drive of Herod but in a totally different direction. Herod’s direction in life led him to the loneliness of his own soul, dark, blinding, and bitter. The three Maji’s direction in life led them to others, especially the Holy Family. They abandoned their daily routine with all its plans, and they left family and increasing their wealth behind them.  

 They could see the star in the sky that led them because they carried in their heart the Star of David, Jesus their Lord. They didn’t know Jesus before leaving everyone and everything behind in the East, and here is why they found Him. Jesus drew them to Himself.

 He’s drawing all of us as well. Don’t be concerned if you don’t know Jesus as you would like. You can always change directions and leave your star for His Star. 

 You will find Him lying in the manger of someone hungry belly, a friend who needs an ear, the next person you meet. Don’t let the disguise fool you. Follow that Star.

IGNITE THE FIRE

Fr. Rick Pilger, IC  
www.bscchurch.com