SOLEMNITY of the EPIPHANY of the LORD

Gospel Bullet Points (Matthew 2:1-12)

• Today, Jesus is made known by the astrologers or kings who came from a distant place to find Him. Why would such important people leave the comfort of their homes and palaces to venture out and follow a star? They were seeking something more profound and better, that is for sure. And when they noticed the rising star, they followed it. It was a great risk for them, but they were not afraid to search for the child.
• Herod, another kind of leader, was threatened by the appearance of Jesus. His actions were motivated by self-interest. He wanted to preserve his position and authority. Unlike the astrologers, he was not looking for something better and deeper meaning in life. He was content with his position of wealth and power. Any threat to his authority, he will annihilate. The decision was arrived. All the innocent boys, two years old and under, in Bethlehem would have to be massacred.
• Today, we come to the manger as well. We are called to leave our homes to make known what happened on Christmas day. Like the magi, we are invited to make known the love of a God who sent his only Son to be Emmanuel—God with us.
• Epiphany, the manifestation of the Lord (formerly called the feast of three kings), is not only celebrated today; like Christmas, it should be celebrated throughout our lives. Christ must be manifested and revealed to men and women, and His message must be shared constantly. Epiphany is more than the coming of Kings or Astrologers 2000 years ago. It is very much about us.