Discussion Questions

First Reading

Isaiah 60:1-6

F1. The First Reading says that, though darkness covered the earth, light and glory had come to Jerusalem. Are you always aware of God’s light and glory? What about God’s actions in your life?

F2. Did Jerusalem have light of her own? Were nations coming to her or to the light? Was the star shining only for the people in Jerusalem or for all people everywhere? What do you think draws people to the Church today: power, tenderness, people caring for those in need?   

Second Reading

Ephesians 3:2-3a, 5-6

S1. “Just what was this mystery that brightened the whole world? Why was the star an integral part of the story?

S2. Paul says that a revelation was given him by the Spirit. It said that Christ’s life was too great to be limited to its starting place. His life was for all generations and not only the Jews but the Gentiles as well. All are “coheirs, members of the same body.” Did the star’s light shine on each and every person, precious and irreplaceable, in God’s eyes? Do we all need each other?

Gospel

Matthew 2:1-12

G1.  What is the main contrast between Jerusalem and Bethlehem? Between Herod and the Magi. What does this tell you about places and people God chooses? At the end of this story Joseph, Mary and Jesus ended up running from Herod. Do we find “Herods” in the world today? Who are the “Joseph’s, Mary’s and Jesus’” running from today?

G2.  “And having been warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they departed for their country by another way.” What are some alternative routes in our spiritual and national lives (climate crisis? social justice? immigration? prison reform?) that we need to take to find the “mystery of God” to which Pope Francis refers below?

The Magi ... fulfil the prophecy. They arise and shine, and are clothed in light. They alone see the star in the heavens: not the scribes, nor Herod, nor any of the inhabitants of Jerusalem.

In order to find Jesus, we also need to take a different route, to follow a different path, his path, the path of humble love. And we have to persevere. Today’s Gospel ends by saying that the Magi, after encountering Jesus, “left for their own country by another road” (Mt 2:12). Another road, different from that of Herod. An alternative route than that of the world, like the road taken by those who surround Jesus at Christmas: Mary and Joseph, the shepherds. Like the Magi, they left home and became pilgrims on the paths of God. For only those who leave behind their worldly attachments and undertake a journey find the mystery of God.

Pope Francis Epiphany homily 2020
 12/15/2020

Anne Osdieck
 

**From Saint Louis University