Fr. Joel's Reflection:

Epiphany- “The 12th Day of Christmas”

We continue our Christmas celebration of the Incarnation:  Jesus is true God and true Man.  Our celebration today has much to teach us about “Who is this Jesus?”  On the Feast of the Epiphany, the humble birth of Jesus is now made known to the peoples of the world, represented by the wise men. Traditionally, one is represented as African, one as Asian, and one as European. For Jesus is Savior for all of humanity.  

Isaiah (60:1-6) summons Jerusalem to rejoice in the glory of the Lord.  While other people dwell in darkness, the people of God walk in the Light.  Darkness symbolizes ignorance of God and sin; Light symbolizes knowledge of God and holiness.  In fact, God’s people will shine Light to all the world.  Psalm 72 asks a blessing upon the King (or “Messiah”), who will rule with justice and righteousness to the “ends of the earth”.  Through Him, God will care for the poor and lowly. Paul stresses that in Christ (Ephesians 3:2-6), the Gentiles are now co-heirs with the Jews, co-partners in the promise of the Messiah.  All peoples can now be a part of God’s people.  

The Gospel story of the visit of the Magi to the child Jesus (Matthew 2:1-12) shows us the far-reaching effect of the birth of the Son of God.  Persons of Good Will find their way to the Lord.  Jesus is given gold because He is King over all rulers.  He is given incense because He is the High Priest.  He is given myrrh (which was used to prepare bodies for burial) because He will be the saving Sacrifice.  Jesus, the Light, has come into the world.  Yet, the forces of Darkness (symbolized by King Herod), are already seeking to destroy Jesus and extinguish this Light.

Questions

-The Magi offered Jesus Gold, Incense, and Myrrh. What gifts will you offer the Lord as this new year begins?  How will you grow closer to Jesus in 2025?  How will you serve Him better?  

-On the Epiphany it is traditional to bless the door of your house. Using chalk, mark the lintel of your door with “20 + C + M + B + 25”. The numeral 20 stands for the number of centuries since the arrival of Jesus. The letters “C, M, and B” stand both for the traditional names of the Magi (Caspar, Melchior, and Balthazar) and also for Christus Mansionem Benedicat (Latin for “May Christ bless the house”). The 25 completes the year upon which we ask God’s blessing.