My Dear Brothers & Sisters in Christ,
This weekend we celebrate the Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord – the
Christian day that manifests the ‘Revelation’ of God incarnate. In Western Christianity, this
Solemnity commemorates principally the visit of the Magi to the Christ Child, and thus Jesus’
physical manifestation to the Gentiles. It is sometimes called Three Kings’ Day, and in some cultures
is celebrated as ‘Little’ Christmas. The traditional date for this Solemnity is January 6. However,
since 1970, the celebration is usually held on the Sunday after January 1. Epiphany allows us to
remember that our world is not without God’s presence. God leaves a hint (or sign), a trail to be
discovered by those who seek to pursue the ‘Holy’ in the midst of life. The hint or sign was a star.
The Magi saw the star because they scanned the night sky, questioning what it meant, and were ready
to take a journey to see what it revealed.
Epiphany is a reminder that the Gospel is for everyone, not just a few. The central truth of
Epiphany was that Jesus was manifest to the Gentiles. As a result, the whole Church of the Gentiles
has adopted this day as a feast worthy of most devout celebration. The shepherds were Israelites; the
Magi, Gentiles. The one group came from nearby; the other, from afar. Both, however, were united
in Christ as the cornerstone. Jesus is Lord of all, not just a few. Epiphany keeps before us the truth
that Jesus is for Magi in the courts of the mighty as well as shepherds in the fields; East as well as
West; global as well as local; universal as well as specific. Epiphany reinforces that – meeting Jesus
leaves us altered, or changed as people – and not only in our essence as humans, but also in the
direction of life that we take. Remember, the Magi did not return to their homes by the same road
they traveled. Their ‘way’ was changed and their ‘way of life’ was changed – forever!
So, too, must it be for us. Epiphany is that revelation by which a light bulb may go off in
our heads – and by which we, too, can say: “I get it!” We finally can acknowledge that Jesus came
for all of us who believe in Him and accept Him into our lives. He is our Lord and Savior. He is our
direction. He is what life is all about!
As we enter this New Year of 2025, may we be given the strength and direction to
acknowledge Jesus as our Messiah; to set attainable goals; to continue to place trust in the eradication
of that which has challenged and changed us forever – and to somehow experience the Christmas
Season filled with happiness and joy. A Happy & Healthy New Year To All!