Jesus is the Star of Our Life
Dear Parishioners,
Our understanding of the mission of the newborn Christ is becoming clearer. His birth was not exclusively for the Jewish nation; it was for all nations. The Feast of the Epiphany further deepens our understanding of the message of Christmas. Epiphany, which means manifestation, draws our attention to the universal significance of Jesus’ birth. His coming will gradually affect all humanity, because no one is excluded from His kingdom.
All people will be gathered into the light of Christ. The prophet Isaiah spoke of this reality many years ago: “Rise up in splendor, Jerusalem! Your light has come, the glory of the Lord shines upon you. See, darkness covers the earth, and thick clouds cover the peoples; but upon you the Lord shines, and over you appear His glory. Nations shall walk by your light, and kings by your shining radiance.”
Led by the star, the men from the East came to worship the newborn Child. Their presence and the gifts they offered are both symbolic and expressive of Jesus’ mission. All are drawn to Him; all are led to Him. In the presence of Jesus, the cloud of darkness has no place. This marks the beginning of a new era.
Saint Paul reminds us that God’s grace is made possible through the great mystery of the Incarnation, and that God’s plan concealed from ages past has now been revealed in the birth of Jesus.
This plan is made known not only to the apostles and prophets, but also to us who live the joy of Christmas and the equality it restores among God’s people. We are no longer separated but are members of one body Jews and Gentiles alike. In God’s eyes, we are all equal, called to remove roadblocks of hatred, stereotypes, racial discrimination, and violence.
It is sad and painful when we drag ourselves through the mud of racial tension and hostility; when our conversations are limited only to those who think like us or look like us; when national debates on immigration evoke anger and resentment; or when we focus solely on ourselves, enjoying wealth without concern for the less fortunate.
The manifestation of the Child Jesus speaks to us about our common destiny and the new family we have become. We are His people, the flock He has chosen. Jesus is the star of our life. Do you recognize Him? Do you want to be led by the star? Can you see His signs?
What are these signs today? What enables you to recognize the Lord? The Magi worked together to reach their destination. Likewise, collaboration, peaceful coexistence, and a committed desire to follow Jesus will lead us to our true destination. In Him we find light, happiness, and peace.
Remember: the sign is not the destination; it points the way. The destination is a life with God. Happy New Year!
Sincerely yours in the Lord,
Rev. Vitalis Anyanike
Pastor
