Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord

First reading - Isaiah - celebrating the glory of the Lord
Psalm 72 - Lord, every nation on earth will adore you.
Epistle - Ephesians - we are all graced people
Gospel - Matthew 2 - visit from the magi

I heard an excellent story, which I will share here.  I have not discovered the source, but it is certainly worth hearing.  On the Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord, we hear about King Herod's jealousy when the magi arrive in search of the newborn King.  The first reading and psalm highlight the goodness of the King, which stands in contrast to Herod's behavior.  Rather than behave in a kingly fashion, which would, as a representative of God, mean serving the people and acting justly for all, Herod is consumed with his own importance.  This behavior is the backdrop for the story.

3 men of different religions were discussing which religion was the one, true faith.  The discussion became heated and they almost came to blows.  They decided to seek the counsel of a wise man in the area.  The spiritual guru told the men that the answer would lie with a flour mill on the other side of the great mountain.  The guru said they could climb the mountain and go over the peak to reach the mill.  It would be a very difficult journey, but it could be done.  Then the guru said there was a path around the left side of the mountain which would take them to the mill.  He said the path was rocky and full of obstacles, and would not be an easy journey, but it could be done.  Finally, the guru said that there was a road around the right side of the mountain to the mill.  The road was smooth and clear, and the journey would be easy.  "But," said the guru, "when you get to the mill, the man there will not inquire as to how you reached the mill.  Instead, he will ask about the quality of your wheat."

There are many paths to God.  Some will be significantly easier than others.  Ponder your path.  Are you attempting to climb over the mountain, through rocks and brambles, or along a smooth road?  Do not spend all of your energy struggling on the path.  Ultimately, we are all called to God, and will be judged by "our wheat".