Feast of the Epiphany



One of the definitions of the word epiphany is "an intuitive grasp of reality through something (such as an event) usually simple and striking." I think this fully encompasses the Feast of the Epiphany, which we celebrate twelve days after Christmas. 

Through the magi's studies and in all their accumulated knowledge, they were called (by intuition/Divine revelation) to follow the star to Bethlehem. There, they found Jesus lying in a manger, a "simple and striking" vision of a King sent to rescue the Jewish people. They presented Him with gifts of gold (His Kingship), frankincense (His Priesthood), and myrrh (His burial ointment). Those may seem odd gifts to us, as we usually present newborn babies with blankets, clothing, diapers, & toys. However, the magi intuitively knew these gifts held special meaning for the reality of Jesus' life, death, and resurrection. 

A simple, striking birth in a manger in Bethlehem opened the door to salvation for the Jewish people, as well as for us over 2000 years later. 

The magi were led to follow a star. What leads you to follow Jesus?

What gifts are you intuitively called to offer to Jesus? 

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