The Solemnity of the Epiphany, also known as the Feast of the Three Kings, is a profound celebration of our Christian faith. This feast, which dates back to 354 A.D. in the eastern churches, became a tradition in the Roman Church by the 4th century, observed annually on January 6. It commemorates the journey of the Magi- wise men from the East _ who traveled far and wide to pay homage to the newborn king, Jesus Christ.
Journeying in Faith
The journey of the Magi reminds us of our life journeys. Each of us navigates different paths, often filled with challenges and uncertainties. Yet, we are never alone. Along the way, we have companions: our families, friends, communities, and Jesus, our eternal companion.
Life becomes more meaningful and manageable when we walk together, supporting one another in faith and love. Like the Magi who brought gifts to the Christ Child, we too are invited to offer something to Jesus_ not material riches but the treasures of our hearts. Jesus seeks our love, devotion, and openness to His will.
Worship in Truth and Spirit
True worship is not about grand gestures but giving our full service and whole selves to Jesus. It is about recognizing His presence in our lives, encountering Him daily, and worshipping Him with hearts full of love and gratitude.
The Meaning of Epiphany
The epiphany holds a message of God's love and revelation. Let's explore its deeper significance through this acronym:
E - Expression of God's manifestation and profound love to all mankind.
P - Provision of access for all of us to His kingdom
I - Illumination of God's love and compassion
P - Power and authority given to Jesus for our sake
H - Humility embraced by Jesus to make us humble and holy.
A - Amending our lives. Allow Jesus to align our lives to his will
N - Navigate our lives to the right path by nourishing our body and soul.
Y - Yearn eternal life
The Relevance of Epiphany Today
The Epiphany reminds us that God's manifestation extends to everyone and is not exclusive to a group or religion. He offers salvation for all. Like the Magi, we are Gentiles, yet His love and revelation embrace all humanity. We encounter His presence daily in the creation, His Word, the Sacraments, and the people we meet.
The Magi's face-to-face encounter with the Christ Child in Bethlehem reflects our encounters with Jesus in the Holy Eucharist. Every time we receive Holy Communion, we experience the transformative presence of the same Jesus they adored.
Living The Epiphany
The Epiphany calls us to prepare our hearts not just for Christ's second coming but for encountering Him in our daily lives. It challenges us to see Jesus in the sacraments, our neighbors, and ourselves.
This year, let us celebrate the Epiphany by journeying together in faith, offering our love and devotion to Jesus, and nourishing one another as companions on the journey in this Jubilee year.
What will you offer to Jesus today?
Let your gift be a wholehearted offering of your love, faith, and worship.
May the light of the Epiphany inspire and guide us as we continue to nourish our body and soul with God's unending grace.
Ms. Cherry Mallorca, AcronymLady
Author and host of Nourishing Our Body and Soul
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