Merry Christmas!
Today we celebrate the Transferred Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord.
The Epiphany stirs up imagery of three kings following the light of a star in order to bring gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh to the Christ child.
This is true, but the more important theme of this solemnity lies in the name “Epiphany” which comes from the Greek word meaning “manifestation.” Therefore, the Epiphany is the manifestation of God on earth.
The magi came not to see a child, but to see God. They looked upon a child, but this child was God the Son. God was revealing His presence to these magi at the time of the Epiphany.
It would be great if we could look upon God as they looked upon Him. Thankfully, as those within the Church we are able to look upon Him as they did. Each and every time that we behold the Eucharist we behold Christ who is present with us.
The magi went out of there way to be with this child. In the same manner Christ desires that we come in order that we may be present with Him. The world in which we live is a busy place, but we cannot fool ourself into thinking that we are too busy for God. There are many who have done this by pushing prayer off to the side or make assisting at Mass as necessary when it is only deemed as being convenient.
Yes, the Law instructs us to assist at Mass each and every Sunday and Holy Day of Obligation. Hopefully, we develop a relationship with the Lord to the point that we don’t come because of an obligation, but because of a fervent desire to enter into relationship with Him.
The magi were changed by their encounter with Christ. So too we should be transformed when we come to encounter the Lord. Let us encounter the Lord with joy this day for He who we behold in the Most Holy Eucharist is the answer that our hear seeks. It was said in the Gospel of Saint John: “I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me will never hunger, and whoever believes in me will never thirst.”
Let this celebration of the Epiphany open our heart to fervent Eucharist devotion for God is truly present with us in the Most Holy Eucharist.
