Psalm Reflection: The Epiphany of the Lord - Cycle A

I am not a big fan of reality TV. I obviously do not find entertainment in the language, behaviors, and lifestyles of many of the individuals who are glorified by reality television. However, one of the biggest pet peeves I have with these shows is how frequently there will be a person who says, “I was raised Catholic,” but has clearly fallen away and is doing or saying things that are in direct conflict with what the church teaches. It breaks my heart, but it also convicts me.

Too often, I will find myself saying things like, “no, not them!” or “really? that person??” I know I am not perfect, but it pains me to see Catholicism being misrepresented on such a large platform like a television show. I want to see the devoted, faithful Catholics represented, but that is almost never the case. I am experiencing, in some way, the reality of the Psalm response for this Sunday, “Lord, every nation on earth will adore you.”

Every nation.

Every single type of person you can imagine is built to adore the Lord. Every person you encounter—no matter their race, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, current religious affiliation, sexual orientation, political party, occupation, socioeconomic status, or background—they were all created by God and for God. In the words of the prophet Daniel’s vision:

“As the visions during the night continued, I saw coming with the clouds of heaven / One like a son of man. / When he reached the Ancient of Days / and was presented before him, / He received dominion, splendor, and kingship; / all nations, peoples and tongues will serve him. / His dominion is an everlasting dominion / that shall not pass away, / his kingship, one that shall not be destroyed.” - Daniel 7:13-14

Having a “kingdom” mindset is not viewing the world as “us” versus “them.” In the kingdom of God, there is only “we.” All are welcome and destined for the eternal table of the Lord.

“This is good and pleasing to God our savior, who wills everyone to be saved and to come to knowledge of the truth.” - 1 Timothy 2:3-4

“The Lord does not delay his promise, as some regard “delay,” but he is patient with you, not wishing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.” - 2 Peter 3:9

As disciples of Christ, we must have a kingdom mindset. We must acknowledge the little earthly “kingdoms” we build for ourselves that cause us to exclude, criticize, or demonize others, and we must level them to the ground to make room for the heavenly kingdom to take root in our hearts.

“No person is your enemy. The Enemy is the enemy.” - Father Mike Schmitz

This Sunday we celebrate the feast of the Epiphany and we hear the story of the magi who saw a sign in the sky and responded in faith to pursue its meaning. It was not a hidden, secret message only for the wise or learned. The “star” was visible to all, an invitation for anyone to see and respond. 

Perhaps, this Sunday, the Lord is inviting you to be that sign, that “star,” in the lives of other people, and to be ready and willing to receive those who respond in faith, however unexpected or unlikely those people might be. Today, on New Year’s Eve, let us look to the coming year with faith, hope, and resolve to do better.

When do I catch myself building little earthly kingdoms, excluding or judging others by their background, politics, or choices? How might God be calling me to level those walls today?

Where do I demonize the Enemy's work in others instead of seeing souls made for adoration? 

Who do I label "them" in my politics, family, or culture? How can I pray for one today, seeing Christ's image there?

Where in my life does God shine a "star" through media, neighbors, or strangers? Am I watching, or turning away?

Who in my daily life, the unexpected stranger or outsider, might Christ be inviting through me as a "star" of welcome? How will I respond in faith?

I am praying for you. Please pray for me and my family, and I will see you in the Eucharist.

Matt

This reflection is based on the Responsorial Psalm for this Sunday, January 4th, 2026, the Epiphany of the Lord: Psalms 72:1-2, 7-8, 10-11, 12-13.