January 3, 2016: The Epiphany of the Lord

Daughter decorates a Christmas cookie for her father.

When Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea, in the days of King Herod, behold, magi from the east arrived in Jerusalem, saying, “Where is the newborn king of the Jews? We saw his star at its rising and have come to do him homage.”
When King Herod heard this, he was greatly troubled, and all Jerusalem with him. Assembling all the chief priests and the scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Christ was to be born.
They said to him,
“In Bethlehem of Judea, for thus it has been written through the prophet:
And you, Bethlehem, land of Judah,
are by no means least among the rulers of Judah;
since from you shall come a ruler,
who is to shepherd my people Israel.”
Then Herod called the magi secretly and ascertained from them the time of the star’s appearance. He sent them to Bethlehem and said, “Go and search diligently for the child. When you have found him, bring me word, that I too may go and do him homage.” After their audience with the king they set out. And behold, the star that they had seen at its rising preceded them, until it came and stopped over the place where the child was.
They were overjoyed at seeing the star, and on entering the house they saw the child with Mary his mother. They prostrated themselves and did him homage. Then they opened their treasures and offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. And having been warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they departed for their country by another way. (Matthew 2:1-12)

Reflection:

The three wise men saw the star and followed it. Let the teachings of Jesus guide you like the star guided them to Jesus. The three wise men brought their best gifts to Jesus to honor the newborn king.

Action:

Jesus has given us so many gifts. A gift does not have to be an I-pad, X-box, a toy, or clothes. A gift can be a kind action to another person such as picking up your room, visiting a neighbor or relative, or even just telling your parents you love them. What gifts would you give Jesus? Give Him your best.

Guest Reflection Writers

Teresa and Jill Kasten, Sister Rebecca Keller’s sister and niece, wrote today’s Gospel Reflection as guest authors.

Teresa is an elementary education teacher, and her daughter, Jill, has a degree in early childhood education.