Epiphany Gospel Reflection 2021

 Gospel: Matthew 2:1-12

"Wise Men Still Seek Him!"

We see the above quote on bumper stickers, signs, decorations, etc. It affirms the deep longing we all have to find & know Jesus.

Many people feel that longing, but do not recognize it for what it truly is. In their search for fulfillment, they pursue wealth, power, status, material items. They want the best of the best, the largest, the most. For a while, their acquisitions make them happy, until one day, they sense something else is needed. They're not satisfied, so they seek more. This goes on & on, over & over, because they're not being filled by what their heart truly longs for -- Jesus! He alone can fill that space in their (our) hearts. He is the perfect fit!

The wise men knew that. As learned men, they'd studied the prophecies & promises of a Savior for all. As soon as they heard of His birth, they set off on the journey to see Him. In their wisdom, the gifts they presented held special meaning for His life & death. Gold was in recognition of His Kingship, Frankincense for His Priesthood, & Myrrh, a burial ointment, was a symbol of His Passion & Death. They understood there was something special about Him & recognized that He could fill the longing in their hearts.

So must we recognize that material things will never satisfy us & bring us true joy. Sure, we may be excited for a while, until the next big thing comes along, but only Jesus can completely fill the emptiness within us. Only He can grace us with everlasting peace & joy, if we only put Him first in our lives. May all we do start with Him in our thoughts & hearts.

Wise men (& women!) still seek Him! Let this new year manifest for us the peace & joy only found in Jesus.

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