My Dear Brothers and Sisters,
This weekend we are celebrating the Epiphany, in which Jesus shows Himself to all the nations and peoples. The Three Kings, or Wise Men, represent all the races that have come to worship, adore and offer Him gifts.
The meaning of the word “Epiphany” has its roots in the Greek language. The first part of the word, “epi,” means “upon.” The second part, “phainein,” means “to show.” By combining these two meanings, “to show upon,” we are reminded of the manifestation of the glory of Christ to the Gentiles.
You and I, as later comers, recognize Jesus through their faith and belief. The Three Kings were longing for the Messiah who comes to deliver his people from the bondage of sin and darkness. They took risks to leave their own homeland and dared to accept any difficulties along the way. In fact, they set out immediately when they saw the star shining on the sky. They consulted with King Herod, but they did not listen to him because they sensed the king’s cruel intentions, to kill the infant Jesus. They approached the place where they found the King of kings, the Messiah, and knelt down to offer Him homage. Then they went back home another way.
Perhaps we should have the same journey that the Three Kings took. God has shown us the light through the Sacrament of Baptism. God has given us faith in order to recognize Jesus as our Savior and our Lord. God has continued to support and protect us through our daily lives by sending the Holy Spirit to make sure we can meet Jesus personally, especially in the Eucharist. Do we really recognize, worship, adore and offer our life to Jesus? Do we dare to change our life according to God’s demand? And do we truly trust and follow faithfully our call as children of God? Above all, do we follow the Light of Jesus?
Dear friends, this week, let us again reflect upon the Light of Christ that has come upon us. Let us assess the status of our Christian obligation towards Jesus Christ. Are we shining in the world in the fullness of the light that Jesus has given us? And, if need be, let us correct what needs to be corrected so that the fullness of our light may shine forth in all things for the glory of God.
HAPPY THREE KINGS.
With love,
Fr. Thuong Hoai Nguyen, Pastor