Scripture

In the time of King Herod, after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, asking, ‘Where is the child who has been born king of the Jews? For we observed his star at its rising, and have come to pay him homage’ (Matthew 2 1-2)

Reflection

Sometimes we are not very good at welcoming people who look different, wear different clothes or speak with a different accent from ours. We sometimes make it quite clear to them that they are outsiders, that they are not welcome.

Our reading focuses on the Wise Men from the East who are being led by God, all the way to Bethlehem. Strangers from another land travelling to a strange place to be shown God’s baby Son. King Herod pretended to make them welcome, but at Jesus’ home they were really made welcome - Mary and Joseph welcomed them with open arms.

God wanted these ‘outsiders’ to be among the first to meet his Son because Jesus had come into the world for everybody, and not just for the Jewish people. Perhaps we all need a timely reminder that the good news of the Gospel is for everyone; and not just those like us.

Perhaps one of our New Year's resolutions could be to be more like Mary and Joseph and welcome everyone with open arms.

Lyn Hayes ALM