The story is told about a doctor, an engineer, and a lawyer who were debating on who was the first professional. The doctor said God took the rib from Adam, so he was a surgeon. The engineer said God created heaven and earth from chaos and confusion, so he was an engineer. And the lawyer said: “Who do you think created chaos and confusion?”
In today’s Gospel (Mt. 2, 1-12), King Herod created chaos and confusion throughout Judea. He ordered his soldiers to search for the newborn king, eventually killing the holy innocents and bringing so much pain and suffering to his subjects. That was some 2,000 years ago. Today, aren’t politicians still doing quite the same?
Today is the Solemnity of the Lord’s Epiphany. God has shown us the big picture, a revelation of His plan for the good of all nations. May all of us, especially our politicians, go beyond our narrow agenda and ambitions, and pursue what is good and beneficial for all.
The traditional three kings, named Melchor, Gaspar and Baltazar, searched for and paid homage to the Child. Some say they were Magi from the East. Whatever, they were rich and wise men who remind the rich and wise people today to honor someone greater than themselves. We are not gods. Let us not play God. Let us be humble, and a lot of things will fall into place.
King Herod and all Jerusalem were greatly troubled when they heard about a newborn king. That usually happens to insecure people who feel threatened, and who cannot accept fading away or letting go. Such, too, is the fate of people who have entitlement and authority issues.
Wishing you all a more peaceful 2018. To be happy all throughout the new year, consider these reminders: “Make peace with your past so it won’t disturb your future; what other people think of you is none of your business; the only person in charge of your happiness is you; don’t compare your life to others because comparison is the thief of joy.”
More reminders for peace: “Stop thinking too much. It’s all right not to know all the answers. Smile—you don’t have a monopoly of all the problems in this world. Have an unwavering faith in God who loves you and who is always with you.”
We all wish for a peaceful and trouble-free journey in 2018, but that is wishful thinking. There will be trials, disappointments, irritants, talkers, and stalkers along the way. Let’s face them all bravely with the assurance from the Lord who tells us: “I am with you.” And that is all we need to know and hold on to. Yes, let’s face 2018 with the Lord as our guide and shield.
Wishing us all many “epiphany moments” in 2018 when God reveals His plan and manifests His love for us. That’s when things clear up and fall into place, doors open, the impossible becomes possible, the road becomes smooth, tears turn to laughter, and fears are banished forever. Be on the lookout, and be sensitive to the stirrings of the Divine. Stop, look, and listen to the Spirit around and within us.
Pope Francis recommends, for world peace in 2018, that we dispose of “useless baggage,” “empty chatter,” and consumerism. He also advises us to set aside a moment of silence every day to be with God, and to go out of our way for migrants and refugees.
In spite of hardships and calamities, we Filipinos are a happy people. We are a resilient and hopeful people because of our 3 Fs: family, freedom, and faith. Let no one take away or diminish these three treasures from us.
Good news! The canonization process for Archbishop Teofilo Camomot is “moving very fast,” according to Cebu Archbishop Jose Palma. His remains were exhumed last Jan. 3 and examined by Church authorities as part of the canonization process. We pray that we soon will have a third Filipino saint.
A moment with the Lord:
Lord, remind us that it is You who will lead us beyond all chaos and confusion. Amen.