PULSE reflects on Epiphany and Servant Leadership

 As we approach the Feast of the Epiphany, celebrating the manifestation of Christ to the Gentiles through the welcome of his Mother, Mary, we at Marianist PULSE reflect on its relationship to servant leadership.

As we will see in Matthew's gospel, the Magi possess the humility and openness of mind and heart to seek and welcome Jesus. Their following of the star is a journey of faith, a constant search for meaning, for purpose, for the things of God.

The Magi were not deterred on their journey, even as they encountered people and events along the way that had the potential to keep them from achieving their goal. Their search mirrors our own life-long search for compassion, justice, peace and forgiveness. Therein we find the heart of the message of the Epiphany celebration.

When the magi finally encountered the Christ child, they prostrated themselves, “did him homage” and their lives were undoubtedly changed forever. Pope Benedict XVI described such ultimate faith experiences, like those of the magi, in these words: “Being Christian is not the result of an ethical choice or a lofty idea, but the encounter with an event, a person – Jesus Christ – who gives life a new horizon and a decisive direction.” 

The magi, thus, remind us that as Christians – as those who encounter Jesus – we are incomplete if we live a life closed in upon ourselves. We are incomplete if we live life only for ourselves and are lacking love. 

Those servant leaders who have chosen to serve others through Marianist PULSE have sensed this, believed this—in a sense have had their own 'epiphanies'—and they remain eager to receive the love of God, and to learn to freely offer this same love to all the people God places in their lives.

Merry Christmas, Happy New Year and a blessed Feast of the Epiphany to all from Marianist PULSE!