Today we celebrate the familiar account of the three Wise Men (Magi). The story is a staple of the whole Christmas scene beginning with Joseph and the pregnant Mary of Nazareth traveling to Bethlehem. There Mary gives birth to their son Jesus, born in a stable because there was "no room for them in the inn."

The Epiphany (literally "a showing, a revelation") focuses on the revelation, the showing of Jesus to the world, here symbolized by the traveling Magi, from "the east." They saw a star and were moved to follow it to its origin, Bethlehem, and the cave where Jesus was born to Mary.

Their determination is impressive and their desires noble. The star is a pointer for them to find the holy family with the newborn Jesus of Nazareth.  They bring gifts to honor the boy and to fulfill the Old Testament texts.

The first reading from Isaiah sets the scene and the wonder of this special birth to a young girl and her faithful husband.

Consider for contemplation some of the words and phrases offered by the prophet:

1. the "splendor" of Jerusalem
2. the "glory of God"
3. the "light" that pierces the darkness
4. becoming "radiant" by what you see and experience
5. your heart will "throb and overflow"
6. the "riches" of the sea will be emptied out for you

Clearly, something marvelous and enduring is laid out here as we join the wise men and the holy family (as well as the animals) that make up this event.

These words and phrases invite us to enter the depths of this simple but profound happening in the town of Bethlehem blithely unaware of what is happening within its boundaries. The Magi offer a contrast to the poor surroundings of this most special birth. They bring rich gifts to fulfill the scriptures and to honor the child before them.

Gold, frankincense, and myrrh, fit for a king are offered to a newborn. I recently read a joke that depicts another scene that did not make it into Matthew's gospel. It the wis­ ER women. A parallel to the Magi coming from afar and bearing gifts, the Wiser Women offered the Holy Family diapers, milk, and blankets. Lacking the riches of the men, the gifts offered practical, down to earth gifts to Jesus, Mary, and Joseph.

What might me draw from the familiar setting of the three Magi for our faith perspective? The Magi provide examples of dogged determination, an invitation to keep faithfully on task in our prayer and ultimate goal of union with God. Personal desire to faithfully walk the path we're traveling is foretold in the wise men's staying on point, even though their goal continued to unfold as they followed their hearts. The final and eternal goal is revealed to us in fits and starts, but is always being shown to us by the Holy Spirit. And that's a source of great joy and gratitude.

Loving God, walk with us as we travel our way towards you. Give us the hope and courage to seek you despite the many obstacles we encounter along the way. Let us, like the Magi, be bold in our choices and eager in our Journey towards you.