Wise Men Always Seek Him

A journalist once asked Mother Teresa, “If I ask you, ‘Who are you?’ and ‘What are you doing?’, what will your answer be?” With her characteristic simplicity, she replied, “I am a little lamp in the hands of God, and I am trying to share this light with people living in darkness.”

On this Sunday after Christmas, (or on the solemnity of Epiphany), we recall the captivating story of the wise men’s visit to the infant Jesus, a tale of a star and the extraordinary journey it inspired. These wise men embarked on a long and arduous journey to Israel, prompted by the appearance of a unique star that signified the birth of the King of the Jews. Their persistence eventually brought them to the feet of the newborn Jesus, where they paid Him homage.
Insights into the Wise Men’s Journey

Who exactly were these “wise men from the East”? The Bible offers limited details about their identity, but traditions provide several theories. Some suggest they were priests from Persia; others believe they were astrologers from Babylon. A longstanding tradition identifies them as three kings from the Orient, named Melchior, Balthazar, and Caspar.

The Bible doesn’t specify their number, despite mentioning three types of gifts, gold, frankincense, and myrrh. The significance of the story, however, lies not in their identity or number but in their actions.

Why Were They Called Wise?
Evangelist Matthew calls them “wise men,” and their actions justify this title:
They Sought Jesus Diligently
The wise men followed the divine sign of the star, journeying great distances to find and worship Him.

They Overcame Challenges
They persevered through the hardships of travel, the indifference of others, and even personal disappointments. Their determination reminds us that seeking God often requires persistence and faith, even in the face of trials.

They Worshipped Him
Upon finding the child Jesus, they offered Him gifts and worshipped with reverence, acknowledging His divine kingship.
Lessons for Us

What can we learn from these wise men? God calls us to seek Him with the same diligence in our lives. The “star” that guides us today is His Word, which illuminates our path. It is through the Word of God and the life of the Church that we encounter Christ and grow in a personal relationship with Him.

Just as the wise men followed the star, we too must follow the Word of God, allowing it to guide us through the deserts and challenges of life. Walking with the Church, where the Word has pitched its tent, ensures that our journey is lit by a light far greater than any other.
Becoming Stars for Others

Mother Teresa’s words, “I am a little lamp in the hands of God,” remind us that, like the wise men, we are called to reflect Christ’s light. By seeking Him and living in His light, we too can become guiding stars for others, leading them to the source of all light, Christ Himself.

Let us resolve to follow the Word of God diligently, letting it shine in our lives, so that we may, in turn, illuminate the lives of others. Amen.