Jacob Perikala csc.
Readings: Is 60: 1-6; Eph 3: 2-3, 5-6; Mt 2: 1-12
Today we celebrate the feast of Epiphany. The Epiphany comes from the Greek word epiphaneia meaning “Appearance” or Manifestation”. Another ancient interpretation suggests the visitation of a king to his kingdom. It signifies the manifestation of Jesus Christ as the world’s king.
The first reading, set in the context of Israel’s exile, offers consolation, anticipating the arrival of the new Jerusalem. In this passage, a non-Jew presents a gift to the king of the Jews, a prophecy fulfilled in the gospel reading through the visitation of the Magi. Their visit shows that Jesus, the true king, will liberate his people from the clutches of sin and evil.
The second reading affirms that both Jews and Gentiles are integral parts of God’s kingdom, emphasizing equality within the body of Christ. The three gifts offered by the kings; gold, frankincense, and myrrh represent the life of Jesus on this earth.
The gold symbolizes kingship, his divinity as the son of God, frankincense symbolizes his priestly role and myrrh symbolizes his crucifixion and death. Jesus was born as king to die for our sake, not for his selfish motive. In contemporary times, some individuals oppose the Church for personal gain, seeking praise and glory on earth.
Many compromise ethical values for worldly pleasures and acclaim. Like in ancient times, innocent lives are lost today, with many children falling victim to infanticide and abortion, indicative of a disregard for the sanctity of life. As we celebrate this feast let us lead people like stars towards Christ so that they may go to the Lord and become integral members of God’s kingdom.