Epiphany of the Lord 2016

  The Feast of Epiphany is a celebration of the manifestation of the Lord to the whole world. Jesus Christ the light of the world has appeared to illumine the darkness that envelops the world. Arise, shine; for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you (Is 60:1). Only what is hidden requires a manifestation or an unveiling. The Messiah who has remained unknown has finally been made known. God who is invisible has now become visible. God who is so high above is now so low and lowly. God who dwells in unapproachable light has now become the light of the nations.

 The manifestation of the Lord took place in two stages.  First, the Messiah was revealed to the people of Israel – the Jews.  They were the first people to see and welcome the Saviour. The Israelites were represented by the shepherds (Cf. Lk 2: 8-20). Second, the Messiah was revealed to the Gentiles- the rest of humanity. The Gentiles have become fellow heirs, members of the same body, and sharers in the promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel (Eph 3:6). The Messiah is born to save the whole world and not just the Israelites. The Gentiles were represented by the Magi.

 The journey of the Wise Men from the East is a figure of Christian journey to God. Christian life is essentially a journey to God. Christian spirituality according to St Bonaventure is a Journey of the mind to God. In fact, earthly life is a journey to God. This journey begins on the day we were born and ends on the day we draw our last breath. The Christian journey is a journey of the whole life time. The journey may be long or short. It may also be fraught with many challenges- obstacles from within and from without. The road is difficult and narrow (Cf. Matt 7:14).

 The Wise Men were guided in their journey to the infant King by a Star. We will also need a star- a guide in our journey to God. Our Star and guide is Jesus. No one comes to the Father except through me (Jn 14:6). When the Wise Men saw the star they rejoiced exceedingly. When we find Jesus, our joy will have no bounds. You show me the path of life.  In your presence there is fullness of joy (Ps 16:11). They saw the infant King and fell down and worshipped Him. We too have to worship the Lord in holy splendor (Cf. Ps 29:2). Worship the Lord your God and serve only Him (Lk 4:8). They opened their treasures and offered Him gifts. Let us open our lips and offer him the gift of praise. Let us open our hearts and offer him the gift of love. Let us offer our whole life as a gift to God. We must never appear before the Lord empty-handed (Cf. Deut 16:16)
Epiphany of the Lord