Sunday, January 4, 2026

Dear bothers and sisters

Let us reflect on three central points about the Magi and their journey toward the Epiphany of the Lord. First, the Magi were blessed to see the star and courageous enough to follow its light toward a divine encounter. To do so, they had to set aside their ordinary concerns and enter a challenging pilgrimage of discernment, vision, and trust. They must allow the sign to lead them, even into unfamiliar, unknown, and uncertain situations. They must spend much effort, willingness, perseverance, and sacrifice to complete the journey. Like the Magi, we too are given signs in the midst of our daily lives to learn about God, to discover His truth, to perceive His mysterious mercy, and to receive His saving love. The question for us is whether we choose to follow these signs and embark on our faith journey toward the ultimate source of fulfillment as the Magi did.

Second, the Magi were compelled to cross vast deserts, dwell in foreign villages, and overcome many trials. They battled internal obstacles, including fear, doubt, discouragement, as well as external threats from those with harmful intentions or hostile attitudes. Yet through it all, they remained focused on the guiding sign and did not allow distractions to disrupt their mission. Similarly, we confront our own struggles as we tend to our physical needs, nurture our faith, strengthen our spirit, and fulfill responsibilities within our families, communities, and society. We, too, must ask ourselves whether we can persevere through each challenge, stay faithful to our purpose, and complete our spiritual journey with integrity and hope as the Magi did.

Lastly, after meeting the Infant Jesus, the Magi experienced a profound conversion of heart. Their encounter with Truth, the Way, and the Life transformed them, leading them to worship the Lord and offer gifts that symbolized the treasures of their material lives. They refused to return to the earthly king or obey his malicious intentions. Instead, they followed a new path home, guided by love, faith, and hope. Similarly, we have encountered God in every Mass, in every sacrament, and in different religious practices. At that time, we must ask ourselves whether we rejoice in Him and choose to walk a new path where love fills our hearts, peace shapes our minds, and the presence of the Lord accompanies us forever.

Sincerely yours in Jesus Christ and Our Lady of La Vang!

Reverend Kiet Anh Ta.