Breaking Open the Word: The Epiphany of the Lord

The Epiphany of the Lord

Is 60:1-6; Ps 72:1-2, 7-8, 10-11, 12-13; Eph 3:2-3a, 5-6; Mt 2:1-12

Older siblings usually have the burden of needing to be the mature ones, the role models, for their younger brothers and sisters. Whether that is actually the case is a whole other story (fellow older siblings - we know we aren’t always perfect role models, right?) Today, we find what I see as a call to be an example to the whole world. Isaiah tells Israel that other nations will walk by their light. This is a blessing but also a burden...the burden of being a good example to the world. The Church as the People of God is also called to be a light for the world, just as Christ, whose body we form, is the light to the world (John 8:12). Saint Paul reminds us today that this is something that we do not only as individuals. He says that Gentiles are co-partners with Jews “...in the promise of Christ Jesus through the Gospel.” No matter who we are, we are all co-partners through the Gospel, the good news! We are to work together in setting an example for all the world by living according to the good news about Jesus. 

To be an example, we have to look at ourselves first. The example we set must be congruent with the state of our own hearts. If we want to encourage others to be generous, kind, and patient and to love God and neighbor, we have to have that disposition set within ourselves. This makes me think of Saint Paul, who said that if we do not have love, we might as well be a clashing cymbal when we speak (1 Cor. 12:31-13:8). In other words, without love, our words and actions are hollow. And I believe that to be fully connected with true love, we must spend time with the source of love: God. Working on that relationship, giving it priority, will set our hearts on the right course, and infuse our actions, words, and example, with love in the best form: God’s love. 

1. In the Gospel, we hear of the magi who followed the star to Bethlehem and placed gifts before Jesus. How can you be like the Christmas star all year round, showing the people in your life the way to our loving God? 

2. The magi took time (a lot of time) out of their regular lives and routines to honor God and bring Him gifts. How might your daily schedule look if you took another step towards living with God as the focus and source of your life? 

3. Saint Paul reminds us that we are connected in an incredible way: We are the Body of Christ. Take some time to evaluate your contribution to the Body of Christ. What gifts do you have that could benefit your family of faith? 

4. Saint Paul reminds us that the Gentiles are co-heirs and co-partners in the Body of Christ. In other words, anyone can be part of the Body of Christ. All are welcome. When was the last time I invited someone to connect with this parish community? If you haven't, what prevents you? What might happen if you did invite someone?