The Epiphany Of The Lord

Isaiah 60:1-6
Psalm 71(72):1-2,7-8,10-13
Ephesians 3:2-3,​5-6
Matthew 2:1-12

The Revelation of Christ Child to all nations and generations
 

1. The Incarnation of God as man occurred at a specific historical moment and location, in Bethlehem to be precise, where the Word was made flesh and placed in a manger. The imagery on many Christmas cards captures this intimate scene, depicting the child Jesus surrounded by figures such as Mary, Joseph, the shepherds, and animals. From a mere glance , this particularity can create a sense of distance; while the nativity scene serves as a focal point for devotion, worshipers may sometimes feel like passive observers.
2. The Solemnity of the Epiphany disrupts this Christmas intimacy by introducing a broader cosmic dimension. A bright star above the Bethlehem stable not only captivated local shepherds but also drew the attention of three Wise Men, or Magi, from a distant land. These individuals were Gentiles, adherents of a non-Jewish faith, who undertook a challenging journey across the desert, compelled by the belief that an event of cosmic significance was unfolding, as the sight of the star inspired a profound delight within them.
3. The radiance of the star invites a higher contemplation of the divine, as God’s omnipotent Word transcended the celestial realm and entered human existence. The localized presence of the infant Jesus signifies the incarnation of God Himself, who reveals His nature through the human experience of Christ. This pivotal event, unprecedented in the annals of history, reshapes societal constructs and paves the path towards salvation, with the Magi representing the initial acknowledgment of this revelation among pagans.
4. Christianity, fundamentally rooted in the concept of divine revelation, emphasizes God’s self-disclosure to humanity. In the second reading from Paul to the Ephesians, it is noted that this knowledge of God’s mystery was disclosed through revelation. Paul elaborates that the mystery previously unperceived in earlier generations has now been made known through the Holy Spirit to His apostles and prophets. He emphasizes the equal sharing of this inheritance between pagans and Jews, asserting that the advent of Christ transformed Christianity into a universal religion, relevant across cultures and nations.
5. The Wise Men, as the first responders to this revelation, align with the prophetic vision from Isaiah, which noted the Holy City’s expanding significance. Centuries before Christ’s birth, Isaiah foresaw that “the nations will come to your light, and kings to your dawning brightness,” anticipating that camels would journey to Jerusalem bearing gifts of gold and incense. The psalm response reinforces this theme: “All nations shall fall prostrate before you, O Lord.”
6. Reflecting on two millennia of Christian history, one can observe the fulfillment of these prophecies in the expansive reality of the Church. The global reach of the Catholic Church is a remarkable testament; virtually anywhere in the world, one can find a Catholic Church where the Eucharistic celebration is regularly observed.
7. In the early centuries of the Christian era, the faith disseminated from Jerusalem into the Roman Empire, reaching regions like North Africa, Asia Minor, and Europe. As European explorers discovered new territories, missionaries followed, disseminating the Christian message. Figures such as Saint Francis Xavier in the Far East exemplified the universal applicability of the salvation narrative, while local evangelists like Juan Diego in Guadalupe, Mexico, showcased the Church’s capacity for deep integration within diverse cultural contexts. The prophetic vision articulated by Isaiah has indeed been manifestly fulfilled, and one can surmise that the apostolic zeal of Paul would resonate with the ongoing missionary efforts across generations.
8. The Gospel narrative illustrates that upon entering the house, the Wise Men “saw the child with His mother Mary, and falling to their knees, they did him homage.” Over the past year, millions have traversed through the doors of Saint Peter’s Basilica in Rome, representing an array of tribes, languages, and nations. During the Christmas season, many have gathered to pray before the nativity, underscoring the universal implications of the specific event: the birth of the Son of God in a humble Bethlehem stable two millennia ago.
9. The message of Christ holds relevance for all generations. Each individual present at Mass today is invited to partake in the Church’s mission. Though the vast majority may not venture into new linguistic spheres or distant territories, it is worth noting that contemporary society appears to be increasingly detached from its Christian foundations. Although the Catholic Church continues to exist with the Lord’s mandate to the ends of the earth.

PRAYER FOR DIVINE MANIFESTATION
Almighty God use us to extend your kingdom more and more.
Lord Jesus Christ, light of the world and desire of all nations, graciously accept our prayers and grant us your Spirit that all mankind may be brought to the vision of Your Godhead, Who live and reign  for ever and ever. Amen.

Fr Joseph Osho