Epiphany of the Lord

Dear Parishioners,

Today we celebrate the Epiphany, the feast of light. The Magi remind us that Christ is revealed not only to a few, but to all nations and all people. They searched, journeyed, and followed the star – and in doing so, they found God present in a humble child.

In our own lives, we too are invited to keep searching for God, especially in uncertain times. The star still shines for us today – in acts of kindness, in justice for the poor, in welcoming the stranger, and in choosing hope over fear.

The Epiphany tells us that daily happenings – great or small, significant or insignificant – are meaningful and important, for they are the stars, which point to the presence and actions of God in our lives.  

The Magi responded to the stars by reflecting on them and finally discerned the coming of the Messiah.  The Bible also says, “Mary treasured all these things and pondered them in her heart.”  That is how the Magi and Mother Mary discerned God’s Will for them – by reflecting on all events in the light of faith.    

And we must do the same with all daily happenings to us.  Sometimes it takes a long time before the meaning of events becomes clear.  But it will not be too long for God’s message to become apparent if we discern it in prayer and in the light of faith.  

As we begin this new year, may we be people who reflect Christ’s light in our families, workplaces, schools, and neighbourhoods. Like the Magi, may we offer our gifts generously and return home changed by our encounter with the Lord.

May Christ, our light and peace, guide us always. 

Fr Paul Vellimoozhayil