We Saw His Star at its Rising

Today, we celebrate the Epiphany of our Lord. "Epiphany" comes from the Greek word meaning “to manifest” or “to make known.” In other words, today we celebrate the first manifestation or revelation of Jesus as the Son of God. Our Bible readings today remind us of God’s numerous manifestations in our lives and how we are called to share these manifestations with others. 

Christ is still manifesting Himself to us today. We enter God’s house weekly. Upon entering His house, we are in His presence. Is meeting Christ your top priority each week? When you meet Him, do you give Him homage and show reverence knowing that He is your King? Do you offer Him your gifts — your time, talent, and treasure?  I pray that in this new year we all resolve to respond to Christ’s manifestation in the Eucharist with love, reverence, and gratitude.   

And as Christ primarily manifests Himself in the Eucharist, He also manifests Himself in everyday moments — like a beautiful sunrise, a good conversation, a merciful spouse. He gifts us with little manifestations throughout our days and we often miss them. In order to recognize Him, we need to be looking for Him.  Another prayer I offer for you this new year, is that you be more and more aware of Jesus’ real presence with you. 

We not only receive Jesus gratefully but also share Him with others. St. Paul expresses this in our Second Reading, “the mystery was made known to me by revelation… the Gentiles are coheirs, members of the same body.” St. Paul is sharing the Good News that has been revealed to him with the Gentiles. Another prayer that I offer for you in the new year is that you share what has been revealed to you with others.  Invite them to join you here.    

As we strive to become more faithful disciples of Christ in the new year, let us prepare our hearts to receive His many manifestations in our lives, both big and small, and let us be Christ to others. In other words, let us look at every moment with thanks, and share what we receive with one another. God gifts us with countless little epiphanies! We just need to gratefully receive them and share them.

Fr. Mark Zacker

Pastor

The Epiphany of the Lord | USCCB