January 4 – Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord
Anyone approaching the city of Cologne, Germany, will soon spot the towers of its cathedral, which seem to defy the winds and storms that have battered them for centuries. Contemplating these towers, we would almost want to ask them: “Who made you so robust and slender? What memorable events have you witnessed? What saints and sinners have you sheltered within your sacred walls?” If they could speak, perhaps they would answer us: “We do indeed have much to tell you, but that would be nothing compared to what Melchior, Gaspar, and Balthasar, who rest inside the cathedral, can tell you. We almost touch the heavens; but they truly touched the King of Heaven Himself! It is to them that you should say: ‘Tell us your story!’”
Perhaps the Three Wise Men would answer our plea with just one sentence: “It is always an adventure to answer God’s call, but it is worth taking the risk!” Indeed, this expressive statement, attributed to St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross, could well summarize their lives. Let us analyse the three elements that compose it.
First: God calls. In the case of the kings from the East, this call did not come through the apparition of an Angel or a divine locution, but in a discreet and gentle way: a star appeared in the sky. But for them, everything was said. The Lord wanted them to follow this mysterious star, for it would lead them to the place where another King had been born. How prompt and faithful was the Magi’s response to the divine invitation! They are a perfect model of docility to grace, for they show us how attentive we must be to the signs from above, being flexible to the plans of the Heavenly Father, even without fully knowing them.
Second: there are risks. Were they aware of the dangers of the journey? Certainly. But no obstacle is insurmountable for those who have become slaves to grace. Neither the hardships of the desert, nor the long caravan journey through dangerous places, nor even the perfidy of Herod or the hypocrisy of the Pharisees and scribes could divert them from the path that would lead to the true King.
Third: it is worth it. When they arrived before the Child Jesus, His Blessed Mother and St. Joseph, they could rightfully exclaim: “It was worth it!” What were those dangers, trials and sufferings, as compared with the reward of contemplating God Himself?
On this Solemnity of the Epiphany, the Magi remind us that at certain moments in our lives God calls us as well. This call may require certain renunciations from us and, at the same time, the willingness to embark on a holy adventure. There will be risks, there will be perplexities, there will be suffering. However, when the devil tries to make us give up on our “perilous journey,” let us remember that it is worthwhile! When we arrive in Heaven, the Child Jesus will receive us with open arms, as He once welcomed the Kings from the East. ◊
