The Epiphany of the Lord

01-07-2024Weekly ReflectionFr. Aruldoss

Dear People of God,

Good morning to all. Again, I specially thank all those who decorated the Cribs and Churches in all our three parishes. I also sincerely thank you all who participated in Christmas Masses. I was very happy to see more people.

Today, we solemnly celebrate the feast of “The Epiphany of the Lord,” and this is the last Sunday of the Christmas season. Now, the word “Epiphany” comes from the Greek word 'Epiphania' meaning 'revelation,' or 'manifestation.’

According to the tradition, “The Epiphany of the Lord” signifies - specifically the manifestation of the Christ child to the entire world. Now, the feast of “The Epiphany of the Lord,” tells us that Jesus came not only for the Jews but also for the Gentiles. Paul states this very clearly in the Second Reading of today in his letter to the Ephesians, “…in Christ Jesus, the Gentiles are now co-heirs with the Jews, members of the same body, and sharers of the same promise through the preaching of the Gospel.” In other words, God wants everyone to be saved and come to the knowledge of the Truth.

Today’s gospel from Matthew is about the visitation of the three wise kings. They came to adore and offer gifts to the new born king, Jesus Christ. Through this feast of “The Epiphany of the Lord,” the Church proclaims the manifestation of Jesus to all mankind of all times, with no distinction of race or nation. “The Epiphany of the Lord,” is the feast of faith and of the apostolate of faith. It is a feast of our seeking & recognizing Jesus, and coming to him & worshiping him at this Mass with the gold of our love, the myrrh of our humility and the frankincense of our adoration. It is also the feast of God's challenge to each one of us, so that the entire world may be incorporated into the People of God. It reminds us therefore that we should use every available means to bring our friends, relatives and colleagues close to Jesus.

May our Mighty Child Jesus bless you all with His Choicest Blessings in this New Year through the intercession of our Mother Mary and St. Joseph. Have a Blessed and Joyful Sunday!