Epiphany: In Search of the Child Today
Reflections on the readings for Epiphany of the Lord (January 7, 2018): IS 60:1-6; PS 72:1-2, 7-8, 10-11, 12-13; EPH 3:2-3A, 5-6; MT 2:1-12
MISSIO offers “Mission In Scripture” to nurture a missionary heart, providing reflections on the missionary themes in the readings of Sundays, Feast Days and Holy Days.
The long journey of the magi was over. Today we recall the culmination of the faith that they turned into action by seeking the Holy Infant. “Behold the star…preceded them, until it came and stopped over the place where the Child was. They were overjoyed…and on entering the house they saw the Child with Mary His mother. They prostrated themselves and did Him homage” (Matthew 2:9-11).
Wise men saw an extraordinary star. Shepherds heard the message of an angel. Both went in search of a King and found Him in Jesus, a Jewish baby in the most humble surroundings who was also the Son of God. Our Eternal Father wanted the birth of His beloved Son to be celebrated. Those visitors may never have truly understood Jesus’ Divinity or that He was the Savior come to redeem the world. But we do. And now we can allow ourselves to be overjoyed by His great gift to us: eternal life with our loving Lord.
Suggested missionary action: Let us make an effort to assist children and their parents who are in need. We can lend material support and practical help to those we know, or through our parish or charitable organization.
