Dear Friends,
This weekend we celebrate the Epiphany of the Lord. In the Gospel from Matthew, the Magi ‘were overjoyed at seeing the star, and on entering the house they saw the child with Mary, his mother. They prostrated themselves and did him homage. Then they opened their treasures and offered him gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.’ They were among the first to recognize and proclaim the divinity of our Lord.
Gold, frankincense and myrrh seem odd gifts to bring to an infant. Of course, there is the old joke that the Magi had to be men, because any woman would have brought a blanket for the baby and some food for the very tired parents of an infant. But we would be missing the point; the gifts were not meant to be practical. They were precious items in their day, gifts for a king. And perhaps by surrendering those precious items, the Magi were freeing themselves from the love of money and possessions, making room in their hearts for the love of Christ.
We all have gifts that we possess. Perhaps you have the gift of music, or a stellar intellect. Are you an artist who can create amazing things? Or is your gift in medicine, law or business? How do you use your gifts? Have you brought them to Christ, and opened your heart to his love and guidance on how to use your gifts? Have you had your Epiphany?
Thank you for the gifts of time, talent and treasure that you bring to our parishes. I am always humbled by the generosity of the members of our parishes. This was once again very noticeable during the Advent/Christmas/Epiphany Season. Bless you!!!
This officially ends the Advent and Christmas season, with next week being the First Sunday in Ordinary Time, the Baptism of the Lord. Time to take down the tree and sweep up the needles!
Blessings to all,
Father Rob