Various responses to the Manifestation of Jesus

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Christmas Season  :Epiphany of the Lord : Sunday*

*Gospel : Mt 2:1-12*

*First Reading :  Is 60:1-6*

*SECOND READING Eph 3:2-3a, 5-6*

*Various responses to the Manifestation of Jesus*

*1) Meaning of Epiphany*

Epiphany means a moment of sudden and great revelation or realization.

In other words the manifestation of Christ to the Gentiles as represented by the Magi 

It is an event where Jesus manifests Himself as the King of the Universe, King of Salvation and Saviour of the World 

*2) The Reaction of Herod*

Herod didn't get a chance to see infant Jesus. But He heard he heard about the great Messiah

To this, His reaction was very negative. He could not tolerate the birth of a person who will challenge his life 

That's why, He decided to kill Jesus. Because he was frightened about loosing His own authority, power and position 

Such Herods are found even today, who disturb and obstruct the Mission of Jesus 

*3) Priests and Scribes*

These were learned people. They had deep knowledge of the Scriptures 

They could tell where the Messiah would come from, based in the Scriptures 

That is the reason why King Herod called them, and they gave a right picture about the Birth of Jesus 

Even then the priests and Scribes didn't take seriously the information about the birth of Jesus

It was very casual for them, and they didn't bother about meeting the Messiah

So this is the reaction of the priests and Scribes 

*4) The Three Magi*

These had no much knowledge like the priests and scribes

But they were wise people, who could read the signs of the time from Nature 

With one star they realised something great has happened. So they started to find out the same 

On the way they had, many challenges, problems and obstacles 

Finally the King also didn't give right information 

They could not get much support. In spite of all these thing they were determined to meet the new born Messiah 

Finally they succeeded in finding out the Messiah and Jesus revealed himself to the Magi

These Magi also brought valuable gifts to Jesus. They didn't come empty handed. This also shows their greatness and generosity

*5) How about my reaction?*

 The same Jesus who appeared to the Three Magi, and to the priest, who came to know from the Scriptures, and to King Herod from others, also appears to me and you. 

What is my reaction as Jesus reveals   himself to me? 

Is it one of King Herod? 

Is it one of the scribes and priests?

Is it like,  that of Magi of East? 

What is my reaction to the manifestation of Jesus in my life? 

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*