As we celebrate the feast of Epiphany, we experience a subtle change in the theme of our liturgy. From the first Sunday of Advent, through the Sunday following Christmas, our focus was on God coming to us, seeking us out. With the feast of Epiphany, the focus now shifts to our quest for God’s presence in our lives. Now it’s our turn to respond to God’s invitation, to God’s decision to dwell among us.
The word “epiphany” comes from a Greek word meaning manifestation. It reminds that what we celebrate at Christmas is much more than a historical event. When we seek God, God is manifested to us in unexpected ways each and every day. When we open the eyes of our heart, when we willingly journey, God is manifested in new and exciting ways, often in the simple and mundane events of daily life.
The Magi brought extravagant gifts but what do we have to offer our King? Ourselves! We are far more precious than gold. The gold we offer is our hands, our hearts, our love, and our treasures and talents when we raise up the lowly, comfort the sick, and spread the love of God to those in need.
The frankincense we offer is our prayer and worship of our great God of love. When we recognize and honor the presence of God in our neighbors, especially those whom we dislike or who have wronged us, we offer praise to God. Our gift of myrrh is our patient endurance; staying faithful to our faith through the challenges we encounter.
Like the Magi, let faith guide our hearts to the truth that brings us peace.
Let our hands and hearts be the gifts we offer to our loving savior. May our prayer lead us to gather at God’s table where we encounter Jesus in the Eucharist. Let us pray that God will help us replace our pettiness with hearts and hands motivated by love and compassion.
May God bless you and your loved ones today, tomorrow, and forevermore.