Daily Catholic Lectio. Sun, 5 January ’25. Recognising God

Daily Catholic Lectio

Sun, 5 January ‘25

Solemnity of the Epiphany

Isaiah 60:1-6. Psalm 72. Ephesians 3:2-3, 5-6. Matthew 2:1-12

Recognising God

A young boy’s father was working in a carbon factory. One day the boy wanted to surprise him by visiting him at the gate. The gatekeeper said, ‘How will you recognize your father amidst about 150 workers who will be covered in carbon?’ They boy said, ‘I may not recognize him, but he will surely recognize me!’ This shows us the joy and power of being recognized and loved.

1. Three Backgrounds to the Solemnity of the Epiphany

(a) Christ revealed as Messiah to all nations

Epiphany proclaims Christ as the “light for the nations”—not just for Israel but for the entire world. The prophecy of Isaiah 60:1–6 paints a glorious scene: “Nations shall come to your light.” Psalm 72 echoes this worldwide vision, describing how kings shall bow before the Messiah, fulfilling the promise that God’s salvation knows no borders.

(b) Christ rejected at His birth

Paradoxically, the Messiah’s arrival was met with hostility by King Herod and indifference by many in Jerusalem. The threat of losing power, and the fear of change, kept them from recognizing Jesus. Thus, even before our Lord could speak a word, hearts were divided between those who sought Him and those who opposed Him.

(c) A literary function: the Holy Family in Egypt

The Gospel narrative also prepares us for the Holy Family’s flight into Egypt. The visit of the Magi prompts Herod’s wrath, forcing Joseph to take Mary and Jesus to safety. This fulfills the prophecy, “Out of Egypt I called my son” (Hosea 11:1). Matthew thus establishes a parallel to Israel’s own history, highlighting Jesus as the new Moses who will lead His people to true freedom.

2. The Magi and their three moments of recognition

(a) Recognizing the star

The Magi, wise men from the East, first recognized a mysterious star unlike any they had seen. This sign prompted them to embark on a journey of faith. They teach us that recognizing God begins with an openness to divine signs—even if they seem unusual or lead us into the unknown.

(b) Recognizing the Messiah

When they arrived in Bethlehem and saw the Child with Mary His mother, they fell down in worship, offering gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Their outer journey culminated in an inner awakening: they recognized Jesus as King, God, and Redeemer. In so doing, they remind us that true worship involves both reverence (falling down) and a heartfelt offering (gifts).

(c) Recognizing the Messiah in a dream

Finally, warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they obeyed and departed by another way. Even after encountering Jesus, they stayed spiritually alert to divine guidance. Their humility and receptivity to God’s warning highlight that recognizing the Messiah is an ongoing posture of listening and obedience. They were able to recognize God’s voice in their dream.

3. Pastoral Implications: Recognizing the Messiah Today

(a) Look for God’s signs

Like the Magi observing the star, we too must remain vigilant. God may speak to us through Scripture, through a friend’s timely counsel, or through the needs of those around us. Keep your heart open to these “stars” that point to Christ.

(b) Offer your best

The Magi presented precious gifts to the Child Jesus. Our gift may not be gold or incense, but we can present our time, talents, and love to God. When we truly recognize who Jesus is, we willingly give Him the best of ourselves.

(c) Stay spiritually alert

Just as the Magi changed their route after the warning, we, too, may need to change direction in life once we have encountered Christ. Conversion and growth in faith require both vigilance and humility. Be ready to follow God’s promptings, even when they disrupt familiar paths.

(d) Overcome indifference

Herod and many in Jerusalem missed the greatest event in history because they were fearful or uninterested. Let us not fall into the same trap. In the ordinary routines of life, strive never to lose the sense of awe and wonder at God’s presence.

Fr. Yesu Karunanidhi

Archdiocese of Madurai

Missionary of Mercy