Jan 7 — Epiphany of the Lord
Epiphany, also known as Theophany in Eastern Christian traditions, is a Christian feast day that celebrates the revelation of God incarnate as Jesus Christ.
In Western Christianity, the feast commemorates principally (but not solely) the visit of the Magi to the Christ Child, and thus Jesus Christ’s physical manifestation to the Gentiles. It is sometimes called Three Kings’ Day, and in some traditions celebrated as Little Christmas. Moreover, the feast of the Epiphany, in some denominations, also initiates the liturgical season of Epiphanytide.
Eastern Christians, on the other hand, commemorate the baptism of Jesus in the Jordan River, seen as his manifestation to the world as the Son of God. The spot marked by Al-Maghtas in Jordan, adjacent to Qasr al-Yahud in the West Bank, is considered to be the original site of the baptism of Jesus and the ministry of John the Baptist.
The traditional date for the feast is January 6. However, since 1970, the celebration is held in some countries on the Sunday after January 1. Those Eastern Churches which are still following the Julian calendar observe the feast on what, according to the internationally used Gregorian calendar, is January 19, because of the current 13-day difference between the Julian and Gregorian calendars.
- Wikipedia
Isa 60:1-6
Eph 3:2-3,5-6
Mt 2:1-12
At this sight you will grow radiant, your heart throbbing and full…
I recently watched a fascinating series on one of the media streaming websites (I am not mentioning the name of the series and website to minimise spoilers.) The basic premise of this series is about sin and the punishment that accompanies it — such an intense topic as entertainment!
The first reading of today talks of the day when “the glory of the Lord is rising on you, though night still covers the earth and darkness the peoples.” This reading gives me a feeling of excitement, joy and anticipation. I look forward to the time when everything is clothed in the light!
When I think of the context of the series, however, I begin to see a different point of view. What happens if the darkness gives me a sense of safety and protection? What if exposing myself to the light puts me in a position where I must face shame and punishment? What if I thought that such a ‘light’ would result in me being in a weaker position, ultimately putting me at personal risk?
This was perhaps what Herod was thinking to himself as he heard about the new “king of the Jews”. He immediately thought that this new king must threaten his existing power and kingdom. He must have thought that this king would ultimately rise to overthrow his kingdom, resulting in him also potentially losing his life!
As I reflect further, I realised that Herod had thought this way only because he did not have a relationship with our God and hence, had no faith and confidence in Him. If Herod had such a faith relationship, he might have acted differently.
How can we be different from Herod? How can we learn to embrace the light? By establishing and growing an intimate relationship with our Lord! When we do this (and maintain it through the Sacraments), we no longer need to hide in the darkness; there simply is no need. Our faith allows us to fully participate in this new world with the glory of our Lord. Rather than cowering and being frightened of what His light will bring, we will rejoice and flourish in it!
(Today’s OXYGEN by Paul Wee)
Prayer: Father God, help us to embrace Your light. We pray that we will be unafraid and unashamed of who we are and what we have done. Help us, Father, to trust in You!
Thanksgiving: Thank you Lord, for surrounding us with Your glory, especially during these challenging times. We are grateful that You continue to watch over us!
OXYGEN 
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