The Epiphany of the Lord

Study:  Recall a moment when you were guided to make a good decision.  Who helped you?

Pray: Is there a tough decision in your life?  Pray for God’s light to shine upon you.

Serve:  How can you help another find the Lord’s light for their lives?

Mass Readings – The Epiphany of the Lord

There are several wonderful points for reflection in this well known gospel reading:

• The Magi who come from the East
• A star that guides them
• The perplexity of King Herod and all Jerusalem
• The fulfillment of the prophecy of Micah (“And you Bethlehem…”)
• The plot of King Herod
• The gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh
• The warning of the Magi in a dream not to return to Herod

The word epiphany means “to shine upon” and it is the illumination of this story – by starlight, prophecy, gifts, and foreign wisdom – that help us see how God works in our world.

The birth of Christ brings light by which people begin to see the Lord.  We are no longer in darkness!  What’s more, this light is available to all peoples…for the prophecy of Micah in the Jewish tradition and the study of the stars guide the Magi to Jesus.

This light continues to shine in our world today.  God’s grace casts out darkness and brings light to guide us as we seek to follow the Lord through the cares and worries of daily life.  May we seek out the Lord’s light for our lives, and help others to be directed in faith to find Jesus Christ.