The Feast of the Epiphany
The Epiphany of the Lord marks the revelation of Jesus as the Son of God to the whole world, symbolised by the Magi's journey to honour the newborn King. These wise men, familiar with astrology and the Jewish hope for a Messiah, headed towards a unique star that led them to Christ.
Their journey mirrors my own spiritual pilgrimage. God often uses what is familiar to call me closer to Him. As a mother, I see His nature as my Creator reflected in my role as creator and nurturer. The immense love, compassion and protection that I feel for my son, Peter, expands my heart to fathom how much more God loves and protects me, regardless of my sinfulness. Tough parenting moments also remind me that God's plans, though painful at times, are essential for my growth. Much like the star which guided the Magi, these revelations together with the graces of the Holy Spirit, have led me closer to Jesus.
As St. Augustine reminds us, “The star beckoned the Magi to seek Christ. It went before them to the place where He was, and when they had found Him, it stood still. The star is the voice of the Holy Spirit.”
The Magi's gifts - gold for Christ’s kingship, frankincense for His divinity, and myrrh for His sacrifice - reflect His identity and remind me to honour Him as King, God, and Saviour. Their act of surrender before the Christ Child also challenges me to a greater degree of laying my life before Him in complete trust. In this new season of leadership as a community shepherd, God invites me to give myself fully, trusting in His constant provision.
As this new year begins, I pray we remain attentive to Christ’s presence in the ordinary moments, to respond boldly to His call, and persevere in our unique journeys. “All through our life, God is calling…He calls us on from grace to grace..more and more…to sanctify and glorify us” (Saint John Henry Newman). As we embrace the full truth of who He is, may we be in turn transformed into a humbler submission to His will.