Celebrating the Manifestation of Jesus as Salvation

The Feast of the Epiphany of the Lord, Jesus Christ: January 8, 2023

Readings: Isaiah 60:1–6; Psalm 72:1–2, 7–8, 10–13; Ephesians 3:2–3, 5–6; Matthew 2:1–12

To listen to my audio-video reflections via YouTube, please click here: https://youtu.be/bdCM2SZZjxM

In our world today, anything new either a product or service that comes into the market is viewed with skepticism. However, the business houses look at such products or services as either a threat or an opportunity. In a competitive market economy, there is a place for everything including new ideas and new possibilities. When we apply the same principle to our society, anything new is seen either with cynicism or a threat to the already existing ethos, norms, or value system. We find it difficult to adjust and nurture something new and good for our own benefit. Similarly, 2000 years ago, the birth of Jesus also brought fear and uneasiness into the royal palaces and thrones of power. However, in other quarters of faith and reason, the birth of Jesus opened a new chapter in the history of humanity. The feast of the Epiphany is, indeed, such an event, which would change completely the face of the religious scenario for the rest of world history. 

1. Revelation of Baby Jesus as the Saviour of humanity

Today, the Church celebrates the Feast of the Manifestation of Jesus Christ, also known as the Feast of Epiphany. It celebrates the revelation of Jesus as the Son of God and the savior of the world. It is typically celebrated on January 6th, when the Eastern (Orthodox) Churches celebrate it as Christmas. The word "epiphany" comes from the Greek word "epiphaneia," which means "revelation" or "manifestation" or "appearance." The Feast of Epiphany commemorates the three Wise Men, or Magi, who visited Jesus after his birth and brought him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. It is also associated with the story of Jesus' baptism, when he was revealed to be the Son of God.

The manifestation of Jesus Christ refers to the belief that Jesus is the Son of God and the savior of the world. According to the Holy Scriptures, Jesus was born to the Virgin Mary and was conceived by the Holy Spirit. He lived a sinless life and taught about the Reign of God. He performed miracles, including healing the sick and raising the dead. He was crucified by the Romans, but on the third day after his death, he rose from the dead and ascended into heaven. Christians believe that Jesus will return to earth at the end of time to judge the living and the dead. Part of the belief is that through faith in Jesus, believers can have eternal life.

2. Wise people listen and act

The liturgical reading on the occasion we see Matthew 2:1-12 describing the visit of the Magi, or Wise Men, to Jesus after his birth. The Magi were not Jews, but they recognized Jesus as the King of the Jews and came to worship him. This suggests that Jesus' message of salvation is for people of all nations and backgrounds. God's love is inclusive and no one is outside of God's plan of salvation. The Magi followed a star to find Jesus, which could be seen as a metaphor for seeking guidance from God. When we seek guidance and direction in our own lives, we can trust that God will show us the way.  All humankind is, therefore, now also invited into an intimate covenantal relationship with God. Hence we need great trust, confidence, and faith in Jesus. 

King Herod, who is mentioned in the passage, was threatened by the prospect of a new king and tried to kill Jesus. This can be seen as a reminder that following Jesus may not always be easy and may require us to stand up for what we believe in the face of opposition. The gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh that the Magi brought to Jesus are often interpreted as symbols of Jesus' royalty, divinity, and future suffering and death. This can be an indication of the depth of Jesus' sacrifice and love for us. Epiphany Sunday is, therefore, an affirmation of the universal possibility of salvation for each and every person in God’s creation.

3. God's Word distills darkness and brings light

Prophet Isaiah in the passage 60:1-6 speaks of the restoration of Jerusalem and the coming of a new era of salvation. These few lines speak of the nations coming to Jerusalem and bringing their wealth and resources to the city. This can be seen as a symbol for people from all nations coming to God and bringing their lives and gifts to Him. The passage describes Jerusalem as being lifted up and shining brightly. This means it is the presence and glory of God, and the transformative power of His love.

The passage speaks of the darkness being driven away and the light shining forth. The power of God's Word is immense and bright and it will overcome darkness and bring hope and healing to our lives. The nations bow down to Jerusalem and acknowledge the greatness of God. It is an expression of the importance of humility and surrender in our relationship with God.

4. Being a Christian means becoming a beacon of hope

St Paul writing to the Ephesians in 3:2-6 speaks about the mystery of the gospel and his role as Apostle in spreading this message. The passage speaks of the mystery of the Gospel being revealed to the Gentiles, or non-Jews. This can be seen as a reminder that the message of salvation is for all people, regardless of their background or ethnicity.  The passage describes the apostle Paul as being entrusted with the task of spreading the gospel. Every Christian is called to be an apostle, the announcer of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Hence there lies an important mission of being faithful to the calling that God has placed on our lives.

St Paul speaks of the surpassing greatness of God's power at work in us. The power of God can transform our lives and enable us to do things that we could not do on our own. The mystery of the gospel is made known through the Church. Therefore, the Church, the community of the faithful has a significant and great role to play in spreading the message of salvation and being a beacon of hope and love to the world. The Magi encounter the truth of how God is manifesting in the world, in intimate communion with all humankind, each and every human being. For this, they are ready to forsake political connections and follow their consciences. With them we must face this world that God has created anew, having encountered the manifestation of God incarnate. 

Questions for reflections:

1. Will we follow the signs that lead to Jesus in the manger as the wise Magi did? 
2. The new year invites us to an ever-deepening relationship and openness to God’s plan for the world. How well I am prepared to do that?
3. Through Christ, we have received a new vocation to be sons and daughters of God. How am I planning to carry forward this vocation in the coming days of the year?

Prayer: (based on Psalm 72)

Heavenly Father, You are the Lod of Lords, and your reign is righteous and just. You defend the poor and give justice to the oppressed. You are merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. Your reign has no end, and you will reign forever. 

May your righteousness shine like the dawn, and your justice like the noonday sun. May the mountains bring peace to the people, and the hills bring righteousness. May all the nations shine in your light. In your great mercy, bless your people and the land you have given us. May your people be blessed and prosper, and may the earth yield its abundance. We pray all these things in the name of Jesus, our Lord and Savior. Amen.

- Olvin Veigas, SJ

05 January 2023