Going Home by Another Way

January 04, 2026 Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord
Daily Readings: Isaiah 60:1-6; Ephesians 3:2-3a, 5-6; Matthew 2:1-12

Children of God: “And they went home by another way” (Matthew 2:12). This line became the theme of the Second Asian Mission Congress held in Penang, Malaysia last November 27 to 30, 2025. At first glance, it refers to the Magi choosing a different route to avoid Herod. But at a deeper level, it points to something more profound. In the end, it was not only the Magi who went another way—Jesus Himself would later take a way that no one expected: the way of humility, service, the cross, and resurrection.

In the gospel story of the Wise Men seeking the Baby Jesus, the Magi represent seekers from outside Israel, guided by a star, searching for truth. They came with questions, gifts, and openness of heart. Their journey shows that God reveals Himself not only to the familiar and the religiously secure, but also to those who dare to search beyond borders, cultures, and certainties. Epiphany reminds us that Christ is revealed to all nations, not just to a chosen few.

Yet the turning point of the story comes after they encounter the Child. Having seen Jesus, they could no longer return the same way. Their encounter changed their direction. Meeting Christ always disrupts our old paths. It challenges our compromises, our comfort zones, and sometimes even our alliances with modern-day “Herods” who thrive on power, fear, and control. Encountering Christ demands discernment and courage to choose a different way.

This is also the mission of the Church in Asia today. Like the Magi, Asian Christians are called to read the signs of the times, listen attentively to God’s guidance, and walk new paths of dialogue, service, and compassion. Going another way does not mean abandoning faith; it means living it more deeply, responding creatively to new realities while remaining faithful to Christ revealed among us.

Children of God: Epiphany invites each of us to ask a simple but unsettling question: after encountering Christ, am I willing to go home by another way? A way shaped by justice instead of indifference, mercy instead of revenge, humility instead of pride. May the light that guided the Magi continue to guide us, so that our lives may reveal Christ to the world.