Joseph Ratzinger's letter to the Three Wise MenChrist, light of the Gentiles. Epiphany PrefaceSearching for the star. Epiphany of the Lord (C)On the occasion of the Solemnity of the Epiphany, Pope Francis offered a homily charged with symbolism and hope, inviting us to reflect on the star that guided the Magi to Jesus. He focused on three fundamental characteristics of this heavenly light: its luminosity, its universal visibility and its ability to mark a path.
The light that transforms
The Pope stressed that the star does not symbolize earthly power or power games, but love that "illuminates and gives warmth by burning and letting itself be consumed". In his words: "The only light that can show us all the way to salvation and happiness is that of love". This reflection highlighted God's sacrifice in becoming man to save us and how that love invites us to reflect it in our daily lives.
The star was presented as a model for the faithful, who must also be lights in the lives of others. "With our love, we can bring Jesus to the people we meet," the Holy Father affirmed. This does not require great feats, but "making our hearts shine in faith" through simple but authentic gestures of humanity and tenderness.
A light for all
In a profoundly universal message, Francis stressed that the star of Bethlehem is visible to anyone who looks up. "God does not reveal himself to exclusive circles or to a privileged few, but offers his company and guidance to whoever seeks him with a sincere heart," he explained.
The Pope stressed that this universality should be a reminder to overcome divisions. He called on believers to build a "culture of welcome," eliminating fear and rejection. "God comes into the world to meet every man and woman, regardless of ethnicity, language or the people to which they belong," he insisted, stressing the need to build bridges in an increasingly polarized world.
The star that marks a path
Finally, the Pope reflected on how the star not only illuminates, but points a way forward. In the context of the Jubilee of hopeThis aspect takes on a special significance. "The light of the star invites us on an inner journey," he said, noting that this path requires humility and a constant commitment to conversion and love.
The spiritual pilgrimage does not end with the encounter with Jesus; rather, it marks a new beginning. Francis exhorted the faithful to be "lights that lead to Him," stressing that this role demands generous dedication and constant humility.
An invitation to be light
In conclusion, Francis' homily for Epiphany is not only a call to contemplate the star of Bethlehem, but also to emulate its light. To be a star implies, in the words of PapaThe reflection culminates with an invitation to renew our commitment to the faith and the mission of sharing the light of divine love with everyone. The reflection culminates with an invitation to renew the commitment to the faith and the mission of sharing the light of divine love with everyone.
This homily, loaded with symbolism, resonates in the context of a world in need of lights capable of guiding and uniting in the midst of darkness.
