Epiphany Joy

"Since in all confidence you follow Christ, who today appeared in the world as a light shining in darkness, may God make you, too, a light for your brothers and sisters." ~ from the Solemn blessing on this Feast Day of Epiphany

I remember my time in Africa with such fondness. I still reap treasures from my experience there. This is me in Mombassa, just about to ride a camel a short distance down a beach. I had spent the morning, stalking a magnificent white bird—an egret I think—for the perfect photo in the dazzling sun on the Indian Ocean. I love that photo and the fact that the task absorbed me entirely into its soul. As I came out of the water, some folks that I had meet from Nairobi offered to negotiate the ride for me.

I think of that ride on Epiphany…of three men who observed a star at its rising and came to pay homage to a King. These three men experienced joy that overwhelmed them at just the thought of knowing that they had reached their destination. They were never the same after gazing upon the child—are we? Matthew is the only Gospel that records this story. The Old Testament reading from Isaiah 60 states that nations and kings shall come to the brightness of the dawn and will see and be radiant. Our hearts shall thrill and rejoice. Herein lies the prediction that a multitude of camels will come bearing gifts of gold and frankincense. Arise, shine, for your Light has indeed come! I love this reading.

I have been thinking too as I read the Gospel how the Magi were called to be seekers who kept their eyes on the One they sought. They could not be distracted by others who would cause harm. Once they met Jesus, they could not do what King Herod requested of them. They began a new, radical life that entailed courage and shaped their every decision. They have become role models for us as to how an encounter with the Holy One can, and should, change us.

With one final warning via a dream, they returned on a different road to their country. They did not need a star apparently to travel back. Perhaps meeting Jesus was the compass that could now guide their lives? Their story is a light to us now, centuries later, to guide our steps towards the Christ Child, to make us stop and wonder in amazement, to bow down and pay homage. Their story is a star for the faithful to follow. Our faith too must be manifested in word and deed. We must shine our light in a dark world that needs our gifts, humble as they might be.

How are you a light for your brothers and sisters? What star do you follow in your life? What defines you and helps you to make wise decisions? For whom or what would you step out in faith on a very different road than you expected? What gifts do you bear for this journey?

Peace,

Suzanne