The Feast of the Epiphany
Is 60:1-6, Ps.72, Eph. 3:2-3a, 5-6, Matt. 2:1-12
Today we celebrate the Feast of the Epiphany. Coming from the Greek word meaning manifestation, to show, to display, we are reminded, especially in today’s Gospel, that Jesus is the Messiah, Son of God, and Savior of the world.
Isaiah tells us that the light has come, that the darkness that covered the earth has been replaced by the glory of the Lord. He even speaks of gifts of gold and frankincense being brought on caravans of camels. Isaiah is ever the prophet, announcing good news to come; a later teller of truths through his music, George Frederich Handel, leaned heavily on Isaiah to compose his “Messiah.” It is worth listening to at this time of the year, for the glory of the Lord is so beautifully proclaimed.
We must love Psalm 72, as we are again given a preview of what Jesus will do when He comes to earth: govern with justice, bestow profound peace, and rescue the poor and the afflicted. The King’s Son will rule from sea to sea, and every nation on earth will adore Him.
The three Kings come, having heard of the prophecy of the newborn King of the Jews. Inspired to bring gifts, they have no idea of their significance: gold for His being a King, frankincense to worship the God-Man, and myrrh for His burial. Three gifts that tell Who this Baby is and what His destiny is. Gifts that show us God’s great love for us. Epiphany is a manifestation to us of Jesus, God, and Man, Savior of the world, our Savior. May we manifest through our lives our love of God, our loving worship of God, our love of all those whom God has created. May we adore on bended knee the one Who has come to save us, to love us, to bless us every day of our lives. May we, like Ebeneezer Scrooge, keep Christmas in our hearts every day of our lives.
Sr. Monica Paul Fraser, OP