By CatholicVote | Created at 2025-01-06 19:36:06 | Updated at 2025-01-11 05:56:13
4 days ago
CV NEWS FEED // During his homily for the Solemnity of the Epiphany, Pope Francis reflected on the significance of the star that guided the Magi to the newborn Jesus, focusing on three key characteristics: brightness, visibility, and guidance.
The first important characteristic of the star, Pope Francis said in his homily, is its brightness. He contrasted the unique light of the star with the contrived splendor of earthly rulers who sought power.
“Their artificial and cold splendour, arising from their scheming and power games, could not satisfy the needs of the Magi who were searching for newness and hope,” the Pope said. “Instead, they were satisfied by a different kind of light, symbolized by the star, which illumines and warms others by allowing itself to burn brightly and be consumed. The star speaks to us of that unique light that can show to all people the way to salvation and happiness, namely that of love. This is the only light that can make us happy.”
Pope Francis then spoke of the star’s visibility, stressing that it is accessible to all who seek it. He affirmed that God invites everyone to seek Him with sincerity, rejecting any form of discrimination.
“God does not reveal himself to exclusive groups or to a privileged few,” he said. “God offers his companionship and guidance to those who seek him with a sincere heart.”
The Pope reminded the faithful that God’s love and guidance are meant for everyone.
“The star speaks to us of God’s dream that men and women everywhere, in all their rich variety, will together form one family that can live harmoniously in prosperity and peace,” he said.
Finally, the Pope addressed the guiding nature of the star, inviting believers to embark on a spiritual pilgrimage toward Christ. He linked this journey to the theme of the Jubilee Year, encouraging individuals to seek deeper meaning in their lives and to identify as people of “the Way,” as early Christians were known.
“Thus may the Lord make us lights leading others to himself; may he make us generous, like Mary, in giving of ourselves, welcoming and humble in walking together, so that we may meet him, recognize him and do him homage,” Pope Francis concluded. “Renewed by him, may we go out to bring the light of his love into the world.”
