Epiphany: A revelation, a proclamation. As so it is with the Feast of the Epiphany. It is the revelation of the Incarnation to the world beyond the Chosen People. It is a revelation to all the nations.
This story found only in the Gospel of Matthew (Matthew 2:1-12) recounts this extraordinary story of strange visitors from the East, guided by a star, carrying precious gifts, and listening to God.
The Gifts of the Magi:
Gold is associated with royalty. Because of its endurance, it has also become associated with immortality. In the time of Jesus, gold was an essential gift for a king or deity. The magi’s gift symbolizes their acknowledgment of Jesus as the king whose kingdom cannot be destroyed by earthly powers.
Frankincense, a plant-derived, resin-like substance was used for medicinal purposes and in incense. In presenting frankincense to Jesus, the magi recognized Jesus’ rose as a priest.
Myrrh was, in Jesus’ time more valuable than gold. It is obtained from trees which grow in southern Arabia and other parts of the African continent. It was used as an embalming element. It symbolized pain, death and the afterlife. As a gift of the magi, it foretold of Jesus’ suffering and death. Jesus was offered myrrh with wine to soothe him during the crucifixion. Myrrh also was used to anoint his body after his death.
May God, who has called you out of darkness into his wonderful light, pour out in kindness his blessing upon you and make your hearts firm in faith, hope and charity. Amen
And since in all confidence you follow Christ, who today appeared in the world as a light shining in darkness, may God make you took, a light for your brothers and sisters. Amen
And so when your pilgrimage is ended, may you come to him whom the Magi sought as they followed the star and whom they found with great joy, the Light from Light, who is Christ the Lord. Amen