I have seen a bumper sticker that says: “The mind is like a parachute, it only works when it is open.” This is a clever thought but a much better analogy would be to say the mind is like a mouth, it only works when it opens to receive truth and closes in order to consume it. That may be too complicated for a bumper sticker but it gives a better sense of reality.

The wise men sought the truth with open minds and hearts and by the grace of God they found it. They were highly educated men and righteous gentiles who believed in the One True God, the God of Israel. They studied the Hebrew Scriptures and so likely were familiar with the prophecy of the star in Numbers 24:17.   When they saw it they knew the Messiah had come. So they went to offer their gifts to the King of Kings.

Once they found the truth, they embraced it and it transformed their lives. They were no longer open to other paths because they had found Him Who is the Way, the Truth and the Life – Jesus Christ, in the arms of His most Holy Mother.

Many today believe the very wrong idea that all religions are the same, that it doesn’t really matter what you believe as long as you are a “good person”. That is like saying that it doesn’t matter if you love your mother as long as you are kind to elderly ladies. True Faith is a relationship with a particular person, Jesus Christ, our Creator and founder of Catholic Church. Only He is True God and true man.

Let us imitate the humility, faith and love of these great men who sought the truth with all their strength and gave themselves to Him fully. When they found Him they worshipped Him.

A blessed and joyful New Year to all.

Fr. Peter