Happy New Year everyone, and may your every desired blessing for 2023 be fulfilled.

The word, epiphany, is derived from the Greek, epiphaneia, and means manifestation. It celebrates the manifestation of Christ to the whole world as represented by the journey of the Magi to Bethlehem (Matt 2 : 1-12).

Wise men and people of good will seek him still. Life is a journey, and the story of the three kings brings Christ into the lives of those who seek him. The popular song, ‘We Three Kings’ brings this experience of the living Christ into the norm of society, into the yearnings of those who seek the Savior. If Christ was born a thousand times over in Bethlehem, but was not born in your heart what difference would it make? Nothing, I’m afraid. Epiphany is the personal experience of Christ in your heart, in the way you live, move, and interact with others.

Epiphany is a reminder that life is a pilgrimage, a special journey in search of Christ who comes for all people, not just people of a certain race, not just people of a certain skin color, but for everyone. This is the good news worth sharing and taking to heart every day, but especially today.

The gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh have special meanings in this story. They tell us who Jesus Christ is!

The gift of gold reminds us that Jesus is our king. But he is not a king of this world. His kingdom is from within, and is a kingdom of truth, justice and love for all of God’s children. His banner consists of the three universal virtues of faith, hope and love. His remedy for the renewal of humankind are the eight beatitudes or blessings which transform the condition of the human heart within.

The gift of frankincense reminds us that Jesus is the Son of God, and hears and answers all our prayers, day and night. Jesus gave us the Lord’s Prayer. This magnificent meditation can be pondered whether you are seated in a chair, lying in bed, or simply walking in the woods.

The healing gift of myrrh reminds us of the suffering Christ who sacrificed himself for us on the cross that we might be saved from the death-dealing destruction of sin. He has removed the ultimate fear from our lives — the fear of death because he rose from the dead. All who follow him experience the new life of the resurrection.

The Epiphany is called “little Christmas” because it is our personal experience of the miracle of Christ’s birth in Bethlehem. It brings the birth of Christ into our lives when we allow his example to take root in our hearts.

Happy Feast Day.

Fr. Hugh Duffy