GOD IS MANIFEST IN YOUR LIFE

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Today’s Readings: Isaiah 60:1-6; Psalm 72:1-2,7-8,10-13;

Ephesians 3:2-3, 5-6; Matthew 2:1-12

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Today is the solemn feast of the Epiphany of Christ. The word “Epiphany” means “manifestation.” Manifestation here does not mean merely speaking positively about one’s situation (which is an act of self-deception). It refers to the fact that Jesus has been revealed by God to everyone as the Saviour of the whole world and not just the Jews. Jesus was revealed to the Gentile world, symbolized by the three Magi from the East. At the time of Jesus’ birth, it was commonly believed that a new star would appear whenever a new ruler was born. The three Magi, who were astrologers, recognized this sign and were led by it to the feet of Christ.

What can we learn from today’s celebration?

• All of God’s creation gives Him glory and praises Him by its very existence; even the stars reveal the glory of Christ. Astrology and horoscopy are misleading because they make us feel we are in control of our lives and destiny. Your life is in God’s hands and you should listen to Him and not to stars.

• The stars led the Magi to Christ. God uses the things we are familiar with to lead us to Him. He has given you gifts and talents which reflect His awesome power; use them to praise Him and draw closer to Him.

• The Magi lost sight of the star and were led to Herod who wanted to destroy the Christ. We too can lose sight of our goals in life when we believe that humans can help us get to our destination. God has called you and He wants to lead you to eternal life. Trust Him no matter how hard the journey gets.

• The Magi rejoiced when they found the star again. When we are derailed by sin, we grow sad and uncomfortable. But we rejoice once more when we repent, confess our sins and are restored to friendship with God in confession. Dispose yourself to encounter Christ in the intimacy of the sacraments.

• The Magi offered the child Jesus their gifts of gold (for his kingship), frankincense (for his priesthood) and myrrh (for his prophetic death which brings God’s mercy and salvation). Offer your life as a sweet-smelling sacrifice to God and witness to Him by living a holy life.

• The Magi prostrated at the feet of Jesus Christ. This is a show of worship, self-surrender and the willingness to follow him on his regime of peace, mercy, unity and justice. Carry the reign of Christ into your different relationships and bring healing, justice, mutual understanding and forgiveness to everyone you meet.

• Christ’s reign in our hearts means that the light of grace must begin to shine in the world through us, causing us to speak up against acts of injustice and corruption and to become examples of transformation wherever we are. If we all shine our lights in our homes and offices, our streets and marketplaces, with our families and workers, darkness and selfishness will depart from our world.

• As we honour Christ’s epiphany to the world, we need to look into our hearts. There, we discover Christ’s ongoing manifestation to us so that we can worship Him Who has also chosen to be born within our hearts. Diligently seek out that manifestation of God within you and respond to it in the same ways that the Magi responded.

JUDE-MARY OWOH

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To surrender your life to Christ, say this prayer aloud: Father, thank you for Jesus Christ. Forgive my sins, take control of my heart and lead me in your righteous path by the power of Your Holy Spirit. Thank You, Lord. Congratulations! Prayerfully look for a living church and report to the resident pastor or priest.

Prayer:

1. Lord Jesus, I adore and worship You this day as my Lord and Saviour. Transform my heart with the light of your grace and manifest Your glory. Dispel the darkness of sin, selfishness and corruption and use me as your chosen instrument to bring about Your glory in the world in Jesus' name. Amen.

2. May the light of Christ shine in my life and shine through me in the world. You are an overcomer. I am a champion. I will do great things through Christ my strength. Amen.