The Epiphany Call: Seeking, Worshiping, and Reflecting Christ.

 

Historical Origin Of This Feast.

The feast of Epiphany has ancient roots in Christian tradition, with its celebration dating back to the 2nd or 3rd century in the Eastern Church. Originally, it was a composite feast, commemorating various manifestations of Christ’s divinity, including His birth, the visit of the Magi, His baptism in the Jordan, and His first miracle at the wedding in Cana. Over time, these aspects were separated into distinct celebrations in the liturgical calendar.

It was observed on January 6 as a way to mark the revelation of Jesus to the world, especially to the Gentiles. This date coincided with a time in the pagan world when various winter solstice celebrations took place, symbolizing light overcoming darkness.

Epiphany a word derived from the Greek epipháneia, meaning “manifestation” or “revelation.” Christ, the Light of the world, was revealed to all nations. A profound reminder that Jesus is not only the Savior of a particular people but the Savior of the entire world. The story of the Magi symbolizes God’s desire to draw all humanity into the light of His love and salvation.

Epiphany invites us to reflect on four central themes:

  The universality of God’s salvation,

  The Gifts: The Call to Give of Ourselves,

  The Response of Faith, and

  The transformative power of encountering Christ.

1. Epiphany: A Revelation for All Nations: In the first reading, Isaiah proclaims, “Nations shall come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your dawn” (Isaiah 60:3). This prophecy finds its fulfillment in the Gospel as the Magi, Gentiles from distant lands, are drawn to the light of Christ. Their journey underlines a fundamental truth: God’s love transcends boundaries, and His salvation is universal.

St. Paul reiterates this in Ephesians, revealing the mystery that Gentiles are “fellow heirs, members of the same body, and partakers of the promise in Christ Jesus” (Ephesians 3:6). The Epiphany celebrates this divine inclusivity, a God who seeks out every heart, every nation, and every people.

Reflection: Are we aware of the ways God invites us daily? Do we recognize the “stars” in our lives, those signs or moments that call us closer to God?

2. The Gifts: The Call to Give of Ourselves: The Magi didn’t come empty-handed; they brought gold, frankincense, and myrrh, gifts that symbolized Christ’s kingship, divinity, and sacrifice. Their offerings were acts of worship, acknowledging the greatness of the child before them. Yet the most profound gift they gave was their humble adoration, their hearts and their lives.

We, too, are called to present our gifts to Christ. While gold, frankincense, and myrrh may not be at our disposal, we have much to offer: our time, talents, and love. Even our struggles and weaknesses, when surrendered to Christ, become valuable gifts that He transforms for His glory. The third Eucharistic Prayer says: “May He make us an eternal offering pleasing to you”. Is this not the core meaning of our identity as Religious?

Reflection: What gifts can we bring to Christ today? How can we give Him our hearts, even in the midst of our imperfections?

3. The Response of the Magi: Faith and Worship. The journey of the Magi to Bethlehem symbolizes the human response to God’s revelation. Despite facing obstacles and uncertainties, they followed the star with unwavering faith, determined to find the King of Kings. Upon finding Him, they “fell down and worshipped Him” (Matthew 2:11), offering their treasures as an expression of deep reverence and love.

Reflection: Do we, like the Magi, seek Christ with genuine faith and a heart ready to worship? Or have we, perhaps, grown complacent, thinking we know all there is to know about Him, and thus no longer feel the need to encounter Him in Spirit and Truth?

 

4. Transformation: Encountering Christ Changes Everything
After encountering Jesus, the Magi “returned to their country by another route” (Matthew 2:12). This detail is far more than a geographical observation, it symbolizes transformation. Their encounter with the Savior altered them profoundly, making it impossible to return to their old ways.

In the same way, every authentic encounter with Christ should transform us, reshaping our lives toward love, humility, forgiveness, and mission. The celebration of the Epiphany challenges us to become bearers of Christ’s light in a world shadowed by division, selfishness, and despair.

Reflection: Has our encounter with Christ, especially in the Eucharist, truly changed us? Are we reflecting His light and love to those around us, becoming living witnesses of His presence?

 

Manifesting Christ to the World. The feast of Epiphany is a celebration of Christ’s manifestation to the world. It reminds us that we are called to be stars that guide others to Him. Just as the Magi were led by the light of the star, so too are we called to reflect the light of Christ in our words and actions.

As we celebrate this great feast, let us ask for the grace to seek Christ with faith, worship Him with our whole hearts, and live transformed lives that draw others into the joy of His light. May we, like the Magi, proclaim with our lives the glory of the Savior revealed to all nations. Amen.🙏🙏🙏