Pope Francis is urging Catholics around the world to emulate the Magi’s spiritual journey by seeking the Lord with uplifted eyes, traversing earthly paths, and bowing hearts in adoration.
Addressing a gathering of faithfuls at St. Peter’s Basilica, on Epiphany, Pope Francis drew parallels between the Magi’s quest for the newborn King and the spiritual journey of believers today. He highlighted three essential aspects of the Magi’s journey: eyes raised to the heavens, feet journeying on the earth, and hearts bowed in adoration.
In emphasizing the Magi’s upward gaze, Pope Francis stressed the importance of looking beyond earthly concerns and embracing the infinite. He cautioned against a self-absorbed existence and encouraged believers to seek the light that illuminates the meaning of life, echoing the theme of the Magi’s journey towards the stars.
The Pope emphasized that genuine meaning is found by not fixating on earthly matters but by remaining open to the divine. He urged believers to embark on a journey of friendship with the Lord, guided by His love and the light of His word, akin to a star in the night.
Continuing his reflections, Pope Francis discussed the Magi’s earthly journey, symbolized by their feet moving towards the Child in the manger. The Pope underlined the transformative encounter with God, signifying that the light of Jesus was given not merely for personal comfort but to dispel societal shadows.
Quoting Pope Benedict XVI, Pope Francis reiterated the importance of hope, stating, “We need people who nourish great hope and thus have great courage.” He encouraged believers to follow the example of the Magi, who, in their encounter with God, underwent a profound transformation, changing their lives and impacting the world.