Epiphany

Matthew 2 : 1 - 12

They fell down and worshipped Jesus...then offered him gifts......

I read this passage with much joy yesterday, which the traditional church calls "Epiphany". During our family prayer time, I tried to ask the children how, and in what way they have experienced 'epiphanies' of the Lord, times when Jesus has been very real to them, especially this Christmas season. As usual they found it difficult to point to specific instances, even though I am sure that in their very busy lives, they have many daily events to look back on. They mentioned a couple of experiences during their recent camp that I told them could provide deeper meaning, should they prayerfully revisit those experiences.

It is easy to just get past each day in a way that is deaf to the gentle footsteps of our Lord. I don't think we can hope to see a bright and shining star too often, leading us to Jesus. The Magi were very privileged to understand the significance of the star, and to follow the star, though long distance travel in those times must have been most challenging. However, their patient journey-ing paid off. Their eyes were opened and they recognized the 'king'. Not only so, but their hearts were opened and they worshipped him, paying homage to a young child, whom they recognized as the promised one.

I do look forward to daily 'epiphanies' of our Lord. I'm sure that these are more common than we might believe and that as the Lord's 'gifts' they draw us deeper into knowing, loving and following Christ.