January 4, 2025 - One Bread, One Body
January 4, Epiphany
Cycle A Readings:
1) Isaiah 60:1-6
Psalm 72:1-2, 7-8, 10-13
2) Ephesians 3:2-3, 5-6
Matthew 2:1-12
Let him have it
“All kings shall pay Him homage; all nations shall serve Him.” —Psalm 72:11
Today’s great feast of the Epiphany celebrates the manifestation of Jesus to the nations. The wise men traveled a great distance, at much inconvenience, bringing valuable gifts to honor Jesus. The presence of the Baby Jesus manifested the love in their hearts.
King Herod likewise had his love of power made manifest for all the world to see. He pretended to be a worshipper to deceive the Magi (Mt 2:7-8). Eventually, his deception was made manifest, and all could see clearly the malice in Herod’s heart (see Mt 2:16ff).
Things inside us will also be made manifest. If we treasure anything besides Jesus, that attachment will eventually be made manifest to the world (see Mt 10:26-27; Lk 12:3). Is anything in your life more important than Jesus? You cannot give yourself to God and mammon; you will hate the one and love the other. You cannot have two masters (Mt 6:24).
What will be made manifest to the world in your life? Like the magi, lay it before Jesus as a complete self-offering. Let Him have it, before the whole world sees. Jesus will replace that with His grace, so what is displayed from your life to the world is “goodness” (Mt 5:16) and “good deeds” (Eph 2:10).
Prayer: Jesus, fill me with an insatiable desire to worship You.
Promise: “Then you shall be radiant at what you see, your heart shall throb and overflow.” —Is 60:5
Praise: Praise You, Jesus, King of the universe. Alleluia!
Rescript: "In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Imprimatur ("Permission to Publish") for One Bread, One Body covering the period from December 1, 2025, through January 30, 2026. †Most Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio May 7, 2025."
The Nihil Obstat ("Permission to Publish") is a declaration that a book or pamphlet is considered to be free of doctrinal or moral error. It is not implied that those who have granted the Nihil Obstat agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.