In times past, God spoke in partial and various ways to our ancestors through the prophets;
in these last days, he spoke to us through a son, whom he made heir of all things and through whom he created the universe. (Hebrews 1:1-2)
December 30, 2025
Hello Everyone –
Since we are still in the Christmas season, I want to share a legend associated with the three sojourners who had the courage to follow a star and allow themselves to be led to Bethlehem.
According to an ancient tradition — preserved and passed on through the centuries — the Magi whom we honor this coming Sunday on the feast of Epiphany — were said to have been of three different generations. Caspar was thought to be a very young man, Balthazar was middle-age, and Melchior was a senior citizen.
When they reached their long journey’s end in Bethlehem, the three made their way to the place where Mary, Joseph, and the babe were — but went in one at a time. When Melchior entered, there was no one there except an elderly man, like himself, with whom he quickly felt at ease. They spoke together of memories and accomplishments and gratitude.
After that it was the turn of Balthazar, who upon entering the place encountered a middle-aged teacher. They talked passionately about plans and leadership and responsibility.
When young Caspar finally went, he met a young prophet with whom he spoke at length about possibilities and reform and promise.
After each had taken his turn, the three gathered up their gifts and went back into the home together. There they encountered an infant and his proud parents. Only later did they understand what had transpired. Jesus — God’s Son and our Savior — speaks to each of us at every stage — and at every moment — of our lives. The elderly hear the call to things like integrity and wisdom — the middle-aged to service and responsibility — the young to identity and intimacy.
For a moment, let us leave aside any argument for or against the historical possibility of these three travelers and their gifts and the scientific explanation of the star that led them to Jesus. Let us simply enter into the experience set forth in this legend.
As we prepare for the coming celebration of Epiphany — and we come with the gift of ourselves to honor him — Jesus will meet us where we are — at whatever age we are — in whatever frame of mind and heart we are — with whatever joys and “baggage” we carry with us. He will meet us and engage us in conversation.
Jesus will call us to accept this new year as God’s gift. He will invite us to see in it the promise of a new beginning — supported by grace and enabled by God’s own Spirit. Jesus will encourage us to take full advantage of the gift of yet another chance to become a truer reflection of God — in whose image we are beautifully, wonderfully made.
So, as difficult as it may be, set aside any fears you may have. Do not preempt an abundance of God’s grace. Allow a conversation to unfold.
What do you hear?
What do you have to say?
What are you willing to risk?
Wishing you an abundance of blessings and grace as 2026 unfolds.
As I do for you, please pray for me,
Most Reverend Jeffrey S. Grob
Archbishop of Milwaukee
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