The Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord is celebrated on the Sunday between the 1st and 8th of January. The word "epiphany" comes from the Greek epiphainen, meaning "to manifest". This feast thus celebrates the revelation of the Son of God to the world. The Church teaches: "The magi's coming to Jerusalem to pay homage to the King of the Jews shows that they seek in Israel, the one who will be King of the nations" (CCC 528).
These wise men interpreted the signs of time, searched diligently for the Savior, and accepted and adored Him as the King of Kings on finding the babe in the manger. In their deep wisdom, they brought with them three gifts of Frankincense, Myrrh, and Gold, each symbolically representing the deep purpose of Christ's incarnation. Frankincense symbolizes the priesthood of Christ, Myrrh denotes His redemptive suffering, death, and resurrection, and Gold represents His eternal Kingship over all nations. The humility of these learned men opened to the whole world the deep mystery of the Savior, which the Church remembers and celebrates today.
Heavenly Father, You drove darkness from the world by the glorious Birth of Your Son; drive away the darkness of vice and illumine our hearts with the light of virtue.
Prepared and updated by:
Jonathan Fabian Ginunggil,
Penampang, Sabah Malaysia.
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