The Feast of the Epiphany

The Feast of the Epiphany: A Celebration of Unity in Christ

What if there had been three wise women instead of three wise men? Imagine the scene: they would have asked for directions, arrived on time, helped deliver the baby, cleaned the stable, made a casserole, and brought practical gifts—like fresh diapers, wine, and a “Jesus, I’ve Got This” T-shirt for Mary!

While this might seem like a playful thought, it invites us to reflect on the nature of our expectations, our assumptions, and, ultimately, the universality of God’s call to all of us, regardless of who we are, where we come from, or what we bring to the table.

Growing up in a country with a history of colonization, I, like many others, struggled with a sense of inferiority. For generations, many people believe that we were lesser, that our worth was tied to the scars of oppression. It was a painful identity shaped by historical burdens. But as I deepened my understanding of our faith, particularly through the study of catechism, my perspective began to change. I realized that my true identity is not defined by the scars of colonization or the legacy of oppression. My worth does not come from my national heritage, nor does yours, but from my relationship with God. I am, as you are, a beloved child of God, created in His image, redeemed by His Son, and called to live in His grace.

This revelation is a powerful one, and it is one that speaks to us all today, as we celebrate the Epiphany of the Lord.

In today’s Gospel, we hear the story of the Magi—the wise men from the East who traveled far to worship the newborn King. We don’t know exactly how many Magi came, but tradition holds that there were three, symbolized by the three gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. These wise men, named Caspar, Melchior, and Balthazar, represent the diversity of the world: different regions, cultures, and ethnicities. Their visit is more than just a historical event; it is a powerful revelation of God’s plan for the world.

The Magi’s journey underscores that Christ’s mission is universal. Salvation is for all people, regardless of nationality, race, culture, or tradition. The birth of Christ is not an event for a select few; it is for everyone—from every corner of the earth. God’s love and grace know no bounds.

The message of the Epiphany invites us to see the world and each other through a new lens. In the second reading, St. Paul writes to the Ephesians: “The Gentiles are co-heirs, members of the same body, and co-partners in the promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel” (Ephesians 3:6). This message echoes the profound truth that, in Christ, we are all co-heirs of the promises of salvation. In Christ, there is no longer any distinction between Jew and Gentile, rich or poor, strong or weak. We are all members of one body, united in Christ, the head of the Church.

As the prophet Isaiah foretold: “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness, on them light has shined” (Isaiah 9:2). Through baptism, we have become part of that light. We are no longer strangers or outsiders. We are children of God, co-heirs with Christ, and partakers in His eternal promise.

Christ has broken down the walls that divide us—walls of race, nationality, social status, and sin. In Him, we are one. The Epiphany reminds us that Christ came not only for those who were near to Him but for all people—those who were far off and those who are still far off today. We are united in the light of Christ.

Think about the Magi. They traveled great distances, navigating unknown terrain, to find Christ. They didn’t let the obstacles of distance, danger, or doubt deter them from seeking the Savior. Their journey was not just physical—it was spiritual. They followed the star, the light, wherever it led them.

We, too, are called to follow that light. The light of Christ guides us in our journey of faith, inviting us to look beyond the surface of race, nationality, and culture. In Christ, we are called to see each other not through the lens of human distinctions, but through the eyes of Christ—our brother, who calls all people to Himself.

As we reflect on the Magi’s journey, we realize that we, too, are called to be wise. We are called to be like the Magi—open to God’s revelation, humble in our search for truth, and faithful in our journey toward Christ. No matter where we come from or what we bring to the table, Christ welcomes us all. We are all co-heirs in His kingdom.

The feast of the Epiphany is not just a story from 2,000 years ago; it is a celebration for us today. It is a reminder that Christ came not only for a particular people but for all people. The Church is the universal Church; it is not defined by borders or nationalities, but by our shared faith in Christ.

As we celebrate this feast, let us remember three things:

1. The Magi represent the nations of the world coming to worship Christ. We are not defined by our ethnicity or our backgrounds, but by our faith in Jesus Christ. We are all part of the family of God, united in His love.

2. Christ was born for all. His birth was not for a select few, but for all humanity. The Church is a universal family, and we all belong to it. We share in the promise of salvation through Christ.

3. We are called to be another Magi. Like the wise men, we are called to follow the light of Christ.

As we celebrate this feast of the Epiphany, let us renew our commitment to follow Christ, to let His light shine through us, and to see each other through the eyes of faith. Let us be the light of Christ in a world that so desperately needs it.

“Rise up in splendor! Your light has come, and the glory of the Lord shines upon you” (Isaiah 60:1). Let us rise, let us shine, and let us share the light of Christ with all people, for He is the Savior of the world.

May the grace and peace of Christ be with you all. Amen.