The associated reading for this reflection can be found in your Every Sacred Sunday Mass journal or online here.
Two weeks ago, the world saw something that has not been as visible for 800 years. If you followed the news, or maybe experienced it yourself, you know of the Great Conjunction of 2020. During this event, Jupiter and Saturn lined up perfectly on the Winter Solstice and formed what looked like a large, bright star.
I can’t help but imagine the Magi following a similar sight in search of the One who has come to die for our sins. At the heart of this feast of the Epiphany is something quite supernatural: a light that drew these men to our Savior.
In examining the response of the Magi, I see that these three men left their comfort zones to find Jesus. Traditionally known to be of royalty and wealth, I see a trade of the rather dim lights of worldly royalty for the bright light of Glory — even to the point of encountering and worshipping the King of the Universe in the most unlikely of places, a stable.
What should my response be to such an encounter with the Light of the World? Like the Magi, I must worship Christ and worship Him well. Praise God that I have the opportunity to attend the Sacrifice of the Mass, the perfect prayer for me to lift up my heart's praises, thanksgiving, and adoration — although there is so much more that the Lord is inviting me to.
Inspired by the Magi, I am also being invited to leave my comfort zone in pursuit of Jesus Christ. Maybe He is calling me to dive even deeper into the silent recesses of my heart, bringing Him into my wounds, my worries, and my sinfulness. Maybe He is calling me to seek discomfort by way of sharing the truth of Love with my family members and friends who are more distant from Christ. Maybe He is inviting me to say yes to a call to mission, seminary, or religious life. Regardless, I know he is calling me out of my comfort zone and into Himself — because wise ones still seek Him.
Zinjin Iglesia is a seminarian for the Diocese of Arlington, VA studying Theology at St. Charles Borromeo Seminary in Philadelphia. He enjoys all things coffee, good eats, kombucha brewing, the art of storytelling, and encountering God through beauty. Check seminary life out on the Instagram page he helps run for the seminary.