Soon, the Epiphany
January 6 is traditionally recognized as the Epiphany. Epiphany is an interesting word. In our faith, we recognized the word to mean a manifestation of Christ to the gentiles. We think of the Magi coming to see the Christ-child.
The word can also mean an insight or a new understanding. Sometimes we might say “The light just came on!”, meaning we get it, we understand. We have many epiphanies in our lives, it is how we learn. We must also recognize that in our faith we have four primary epiphanies.
I have already mentioned the one we are most familiar with, the coming of the Magi. The Bible does not give us much more information. We are not sure if there were three, only that three gifts are mentioned. Catholics in India, they recognize that there are twelve Magi. We have traditions listing them from various parts of the world, but even that is challenged as more scholars begin to think that the Magi came from a desert community called Petra. The important point in this is that Christ comes to call all people.
The second epiphany we know well but perhaps do not recognize it as such is the birth of the Christ-child. He was born into this world for all people.
The third and fourth epiphany are read in different lectionary cycles. They are the manifestation of Jesus at the wedding feast and when Jesus is baptized by John. The heavens open and God’s voice, “This is my beloved Son, with You I am well pleased!” This is truly a light turning on!
Let’s put this to work today. Jesus did not need to be baptized but realized it was needed to set an example and a precedent for us to follow. You are now called to be an example and to set a precedent for those God has placed in your life. May God be well pleased with all you do today.
May the Lord bless you in the name of the Father and if the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen