The journey of the first Christmas included traveling, waiting, fighting the crowds, plans and preparations that were thwarted by the need to register to pay taxes.
We all can relate to this, after all, it almost sounds like a modern day at the mall during Advent.
Mary's and Joseph's journey to Bethlehem included not only joy but frustration, rejection, poverty, and trials.
But then there was that “Silent Night” when the heavens were opened and the Christ child was revealed to the world. And yes, there was the Epiphany! (Matthew 2:1-12 )
How we all long to experience an epiphany with God!
But are we willing to recognize that it takes time and work?
In order to find Christ, the Three Kings and the Shepherds had to engage in a journey which involved time, sacrifice, faith and trials. Are we willing, like the Wise men, to sacrifice in order to prepare our hearts for Christ? Like them we have been given a star to guide us; The light of the church is there to guide us to Christ, who is waiting for us in the tabernacle and in the Sacraments. How will we respond to the Good News of Christmas?
Can we respond with the shepherds, who upon hearing the Good News said: "Let us go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about."?
Do we want instant results when we seek Christ? Are we willing to see that seeking him is often a matter of perseverance as it was with the wise men?
The good news is Jesus is in His Word, the Bible, the Tabernacle and most of all He is in the Eucharist that is
