The Feast of Epiphany on 6 January is one of the oldest Christian observances, and yet in our time even among practicing Christians, it is often a neglected commemoration. The word "epiphany" means "manifestation," and the feast and its season remind us of the various ways that God manifested Himself in Jesus Christ. In the Eastern Churches, where the feast originated, the emphasis has been on the manifestation at Christ's Baptism. The Western Churches (including the Anglican tradition) have focused on the manifestation of the Christ Child to the Gentile Magi or Wise Men (Matthew 2:1-11).
As Christmastide comes to a conclusion, let us continue to focus on the manifestation of the Incarnate Word in the Christ Child. The Magi remind us that the light of God has shone in Jesus Christ for all peoples. Like the Wise Men, most of us are Gentiles drawn to His holy light. So let us take time to rejoice in that light, and let us also seek to let His light shine forth in our lives!
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