Homily Notes for the Feast of the Epiphany:
On the first Sunday of Advent, the parents of two young boys would set up the manger scene in their living room with the animals only. They place the Magi or three kings in their boys bedroom. Every day the family would move the kings closer to Bethlehem, finally arriving at the manger of Epiphany Sunday. It was a way to remind them that they, too, like the Magi need to seek Jesus.
This morning the Church celebrates the epiphany or revelation of Jesus to the non-Jewish world as represented by the magi. They remind us that Jesus came to save all people. But it seems to me that the magi are also models of Christian discipleship even though they themselves were not Christian. They teach us five things we need to do as disciples – true followers of Jesus.
• First, always be on the move spiritually. When the Magi saw the star, they didn’t stay still, but moved from where they were to where God wanted them to be. Don’t let our relationship with God stagnate. The Magi had no idea where they were being led. It didn’t stop them and it shouldn’t stop us. God wants to and will lead us.
• Second, always move towards the light – towards God. Seek the good, the beautiful, the holy, the people and things that allow us to become the person God created us to be. Avoid those people, places and things that lead to darkness – those “near occasions of sin.”
• Third, always be willing to ask for directions. Many jokes are told about the unwillingness of men to ask for directions. The Magi knew they needed some help and so they asked for it. When we find ourselves lost spiritually, we need to turn to a priest, spiritual director or spiritual companion to help us.
• Fourth, ignore the voices that lead us astray. King Herod wanted to use the Magi to carry out his evil plan. But they let his request go in one ear and out the other. It is sad but true that there are people in this world who don’t want us to have a relationship with God or change our lives. Don’t listen to those voices.
• Finally, always turn over our gifts to God. The Magi worshipped Jesus and presented him with gold, frankincense, and myrrh. The best parts of us need to be in service of God. Our blessings, gifts, and talents must not be kept to ourselves. Give them to God and let God use us and our gifts.
Today’s Gospel isn’t just about the Magi a long time ago. It is also about us here and now:
ALWAYS BE on the move spiritually:
SEEK the light;
ASK for directions;
IGNORE voices that lead us astray; and
TURN over ourselves and gifts to God.
Do this and we will be TRUE disciples.