Feast of the Epiphany

"Tradition has further developed this idea of universality by conceiving them as kings from all three known continents: Africa, Asia and Europe. The black king is part and parcel of this: in the kingdom of Jesus Christ there are no distinctions of race and origin. In him and through him, humanity is united, yet without losing any of the richness of variety. Later, the three kings came to be associated with the phases of human life - youth, maturity, and old age. This too makes good sense, highlighting the fact that each of the various stages of human life finds its true meaning and its inner unity in companionship with Jesus.

The key point is this: the wise men from the east are a new beginning.

They represent the journeying of humanity toward Christ. They initiate a procession that continues throughout history. Not only do they represent the people who have found the way to Christ: they represent the inner aspiration of the human spirit, the dynamism of religions and human reason toward him."

- Jesus of Nazareth : The Infancy Narratives by Pope (Emeritus) Benedict XVI

The Feast of the Epiphany is one to truly be celebrated and embraced!

There are two points that we can draw from the profound reflection of the ever brilliant Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI:

1. There are no distinctions of race and origin

Racism has been so prevalent throughout the world and throughout the ages to the extent that all of us are guilty of it to a certain extent. We have to admit it. The only way out of this problem is to fix our eyes on Jesus. By doing so, we get to see Jesus more for who He truly is, we get to see ourselves more in His image and likeness and we get to see those around us as they are, without prejudice whatsoever. Jesus loves His children as they are regardless of their racial background.

In the same way, many of us have been victims of racism as well but this Christmas season, this Epiphany specifically, we find in the birth of Jesus no distinction of race and origin against us! He came to save us all for He loves us unconditionally. Being victims of racism can leave a deep wound on our beings and the only way to heal that wound is to draw closer to Jesus. When we do so, we grow in the conviction that He truly does not discriminate. He loves us purely most perfectly.

Therefore, if you ever felt like your race was superior or even inferior to another, or if anyone tried to impose that on you, run to Jesus for purification from this sin, run to Jesus for healing of these wounds. Get on your 'camels' like the Magi and journey toward the newborn Prince of Peace, Mighty Counselor and Great Physician.

2. Each stage of human life finds its true meaning in Jesus

" I want to enjoy life first before committing myself to Jesus ", " I am too busy for all this" ," I am too old for all this".

These are the three respective excuses of the three different generations today: the youth, the mature and the old but we see in the three Magi: young, mature and old the right attitude. They went all out to search for the baby Jesus. Nothing was gonna hold them back because nothing else was more important.

The truth is this Jesus wants us to be joyful disciples whatever age we may be. Jesus wants us to be enthusiastic and on fire with His Holy Spirit and there is every reason to follow suit, for in truly having found Jesus, we have found the ultimate meaning and purpose of our lives. Our faith has to be so contagious that each and every soul that we come into contact with can feel the fragrance of His love, peace and joy. This is not something for a select few. This is for all us. The graces to be able to share Jesus that effectively will be released if only we give Him our full yes.

Whether you are studying, working, on transition or already retired, Jesus calls out to you to set your hearts on fire for Him. He wants you. He wants you to bring Him to others but first and foremost, He wants you. Time to get excited. He who loves us perfectly, He whose whole life pointed toward the passion, death and Resurrection has been born unto us. Smile. Laugh. Spread the joy. Enough of being mediocre and lukewarm! Rise up Catholics, Christians let's set the world on fire with His love in this blessed year 2019!

The wise men from the east are truly a new beginning.

Blessed Feast of the Epiphany, Blessed Christmas and Blessed 2019 to you!