The Epiphany of the Lord
Scripture:
Isaiah 60:1-6
Ephesians 3:2-3a, 5-6
Matthew 2:1-12
Reflection:
We live in a world of stars. Astronomers tell us that there are some 300 billion galaxies in the universe comprised of trillions of stars. Our closest star, the Sun, provides heat, energy and lights our way. When I was in the mountains of California at night, I loved to watch for shooting stars (actually meteors.) When I saw one I felt like I was especially blessed.
Once when we were filming for television, when I walked into the chapel, the producer said, "Here comes the star!" I shyly looked down and said, "I’m no star." Then, as I thought about it later, that is exactly our role as a disciple of Jesus, to be a star. Like the Sun we are to be a light in a dark place. By our attitude and generosity, we can bring blessing to others. Like the star in today’s Gospel, we have opportunity to use our talents to point people to Jesus.
The Magi represent us all. I heard a sermon by an African American priest friend of mine. On Epiphany he shouted, "What made the wise men wise? They looked up!" In other words, they were looking, watching for their star. Stars abound. I remember as a young man how the Gospel of Matthew spoke powerfully to me and led me to Jesus. Once I went to a play, Godspell, and was powerfully touched. I once watched a movie, Jesus of Nazareth and was spellbound. Billy Graham’s preaching helped change my life. It is right that he should have a star on Hollywood’s walk of fame. God has a way of leading, guiding and speaking to us through the fine arts, poetry, novels, creation, people and music. Stars abound.
We celebrate light this Epiphany. Even though darkness covers the earth we can rise because our light has come. Our world is full of stars. Epiphany tells us that we can expect new stars, new manifestations of God’s grace that will lead us to Jesus. We live in a world of stars and Epiphany invites us to "look up!"
Fr. Cedric Pisegna, C.P. is a missionary preacher, author of 15 books and creator of television and radio programs airing in many cities. You can learn more about his ministry at: http://www.frcedric.org/