Gospel Summary
The wise men from the East came to Jerusalem and asked where the child who was King of the Jews might be found. Herod was concerned about this birth, and as a result had worked up the total population of Jerusalem as well. To the wise men, he acted as though he wanted, like them, to go and worship this child. He asked the wise men to figure out where the child was and then come back and tell him. Of course, we know that in his heart, Herod only wanted to destroy Jesus. And we also know that nothing can be hidden from God, who knew Herod's heart. God sent an angel to the wise men in a dream and told them to go home by a different way and avoid Herod.

Reflection for Parents
Children love this story because it's filled with things they treasure: gifts, adventure, danger, and mystery. Through these elements, Matthew has made it clear that the magi are foreigners (of the Gentile world in Matthew's day). It is reassuring for us to know and to help our children come to understand that God welcomes all people of the world to the family of God. By our Baptism, we are part of a family of faith, and as parents, we spend our lives leading our children in that faith and demonstrating to them how we live our own faith.

Bringing the Gospel Into Your Family
There are many people, opportunities, and circumstances that guide our families. Talk together about what "stars" lead you as a family. Continue the discussion by reflecting on what gifts you have to offer Jesus. Help your children remember that what we give to others is what we give to Jesus. How will your family share its gifts?

Discussion Starters
1. The greatest gift our family has been given is...
2. I know how the magi must have felt because once we went somewhere and had no idea where we were going. The best lesson I learned from the magi and my experience was...
3. I am not always quick to accept the foreigner, but I will use God's example by...