Today we can appreciate the special gifts for the Infant Jesus – and from Him
Reflections on the readings for the Epiphany of the Lord (January 6, 2019): IS 60:1-6; PS 72:1-2,7-8,10-11,12-13; EPH 3:2-3,5-6; 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.
This is a splendid day to venerate the divine revelation of the birth of one whom we would come to know as Christ our King.
It is most appropriate that the feast of the Epiphany starts with the light of a star and the God-guided wisdom of men who sought to see and honor the infant king of the Jews. These magi determined to travel wherever the star directed them so they could show their deference and present magnificent gifts. “O God with Your judgment endow the king, and with Your justice, the king’s son.… The kings of Tarshish and the Isles shall offer gifts; the kings of Arabia and Seba shall bring tribute. All kings shall pay him homage, all nations shall serve him” (Psalm 72:1, 10-11).
Although we know virtually nothing about these “magi from the east,” we do know the particular gifts they brought to offer to the Baby Jesus. Each has a special meaning: gold points to royalty, frankincense represents the divine, and myrrh symbolizes death. Jesus Christ, the King of the Universe and the Son of God, came to love us, teach us and die for us. Whatever the wise men knew or believed, they clearly cooperated with God’s plan in their unique way. We, too, are called to honor our Lord with our own personal gifts. After all, the very first Christmas presents really came from Him: life, mercy and salvation.
Suggested missionary action: We can celebrate the Epiphany of our Lord through gifts to those in need. In particular, let’s keep in mind children and families who are poor or have other particular concerns.
