The Epiphany of the Lord
Homily Video
The Epiphany of the Lord Homily Transcript
Truly one of the most mysterious and beautiful gospels proclaimed during the Christmas season. The story of the three wise men, the story of the Magi, the story of the astrologers who set out on this adventure. Following the light of a star, that brings them to the light of the world. Beautiful story, filled with imagination and imagery.
You know on this day in many, many parts of the world, particularly in South America, in Mexico, in the Latin cultures, today is Little Christmas. The day in which the children get up and they open up their Christmas presents, not on Christmas morning. Little Christmas, the day in which they open up their presents them reminded that the Magi, the wise men brought gifts to the Christ child. The gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.
Three kings and three mysterious and wonderful gifts. The gift of gold. Gold was presented to this child because he was a king, a royal king. The son of God. The king of kings. Frankincense, because this child who was gift from God coming into the world was to offer sacrifice. It symbolized his priestly ministry. Myrrh, myrrh is used for the healing. Balm for body and soul. This child was to bring healing and peace into the world. Gold, frankincense and myrrh. Presented to the Christ child.
During this holy time of the year, as we celebrate this wonderful feast of the epiphany, think about the gifts that you present to the Christ child. What you want to present to the Lord. And then receive in return the gifts that Jesus gives to us, each and every day. His life, his love, his healing, his forgiveness. His peace to you and to this world of ours.
Readings
First Reading:
Isaiah 60 1-6
Second Reading:
Ephesians 3:2-3a, 5-6
Gospel:
Matthew 2:1-12 (20)
Featured Text
A special thank you this week to our friends from the Queen of all Saints Basilica, Chicago in the congregation.
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