Our Sabbath Scripture Stories – Epiphany – Cycle B

Read or listen to this Sunday’s Mass readings here.

  • Isaiah 60:1-6
  • Ephesians 3:2-3a, 5-6
  • Matthew 2:1-12

Martin Pauline walked into the kitchen just as his oldest son, Peter, hung up the phone and shook his head.  It was just after Christmas, and Peter was still home from college for the holiday break. 

“What’s up, Son?” Martin asked.  Peter and his father had always been close, and being away at college had only strengthened their bond. 

“The guys changed the ice fishing date from Saturday to Sunday,” Peter explained. 

“Is that a problem?” his father asked. 

“Well, yes,” replied Peter.  “We planned on leaving early in the morning and getting up to John’s ice house by sun up.  I would have to miss Mass.” 

“Peter, you don’t have to go with the family … just go Saturday night,” Martin suggested. 

“Dad, I have already promised to take Vincent out for pizza and a movie on Saturday night, just him and me,” Peter said. 

“I am sure if you explained the situation to Vincent … ” Martin began, but Peter interrupted him. 

“No, Dad, Vincent’s important.  My old high school buddies have changed.  When I tried to explain to them that I wanted to spend the night with my brother, they laughed.  Then, when I mentioned the conflict with Mass on Sunday morning, they said I was becoming a ‘religion freak.’ ”  Peter continued, “I told them that my priorities are just different than theirs.  I think they are pretty mad that I’m not going.  Do you think I made the right decision, Dad?”

Martin sighed and said, “Sometimes you have to watch out for the ‘Herods’ in your life, Son.” 

Peter looked questioningly at his father.  Martin explained, ” … I’m referring to people, even friends, who try to destroy Christ in your life, like King Herod tried to do with the Wise Men.  And yes, I think you made the right decision.”             

“Thanks, Dad,” said Peter.  “I will remember the advice.”

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