Epiphany in Today's World

Are You a Manifestation of Christ in the World?

This weekend we celebrated the Epiphany, which is the celebration of the arrival of the Three
Kings to visit Jesus.

It is an important celebration because other than the shepherds and possibly the other visitors at the inn the birth of Jesus remained unknown to those outside Bethlehem. The Old Testament tells us that Bethlehem would one day be set aside as special and this was fulfilled by the birth of Jesus.

It is a tradition of our faith for the clergy to go to homes and bless them. When a home is blessed the doorway is marked with chalk for all to see:  B+C+M+2012 (The blessing may also be found on the front page of the bulletin.)

In a sense we are letting all know who step through our door that we believe and live as Christ wants us to do. We are disciples, followers of Christ. What does this mean for a family, for the members of the family?

As we leave our homes every morning take the time to offer every action of the day to God for His use. In this way we will be more concerned about our actions. Sometimes we forget that we are help to a higher standard because of our faith. We are not just Sunday Catholics. We are practicing Catholics who live our Catholic Faith in our lives.

The Christmas Season has come to an end but that is not a reason to put away the meaning of peace, joy and love. This spirit should remain each and every day of the year. How will you keep it alive today?

“and they came bringing gifts of gold, frankincense and myhrr.” At the end of the day, ask yourself what gift did you bring. All of us need reminders, including me.