Solemnity of the Epiphany
The gospel this Sunday 7 January is the story of the Magi who search out the child Jesus to pay humble homage. This is an important narrative showing the connection between the wisdom and truth-seeking of different nations, and the Word in Scripture that promises Christ. As Paul proclaims in the second reading Christ came for all peoples the “Gentiles are coheirs” and “co-partners in the promise” of Christ for salvation. Eph 3:2, 6
What does this story of the Magi mean for us?
This is a story of pilgrimage. It's about being willing to leave familiar territory in order to seek and find new ways of opening ourselves to God’s presence. It’s about seeking something we don’t fully understand. The characters in this Christmas story took risks to follow the guidance they received whether it came from a star, an angel, a dream or an inexplicable longing. Perhaps this new season that opens up before us, is an invitation to take the risk by seeking a deeper relationship with Christ.
Readings
Is 60:1-6: The glory of the Lord shines upon you.
Ps 71:1-2,7-8,10-13: R. Lord, every nation on earth will adore you.
Ep 3:2-3,5-6: The revelation means that pagans now share the same inheritance, that they are parts of the same body.
Alleluia, alleluia! We have seen his star in the East; and have come to adore the Lord. Alleluia!
Mt 2:1-12. We have come from the East to worship the king.
Homily Studio podcast on the scriptures for this Sunday
Listen to the Homily Studio for a conversation on the scripture readings for 7 January. The podcast is available at Food for Faith podcast during the days leading to the weekend.
Prayers of intercession – a few suggestions
For the Church: that we may tirelessly reveal the glory of Christ to all nations and peoples who do not yet know him.
E te Ariki … Response: Whakarongo mai rā ki a mātou
For the new year: The magi brought to the infant Christ gifts of gold, incense and myrrh: Loving Father as we begin a new year, accept the offering of our hearts and minds as we journey through 2024.
E te Ariki … Response: Whakarongo mai rā ki a mātou
In closing
E te Atua, we rejoice in our fellowship with the shepherds, angels, magi, Mary, Joseph and all the faithful departed. In your unfailing love for us and for all people, hear and answer our prayers through your Son, our Saviour Jesus Christ.
Amen.
A Prayer for The Epiphany by Joyce Rupp
Radiant One, every day is an epiphany in which I, too, can pay you homage.
Every day I can kneel before you and open the treasure chest of my life.
In there, I find unending gifts of every kind to offer you.
Every day I bring my gratitude for you, my desire to grow more loving,
my longing to be true.
Divine Light, I give these gifts and so much more.
The treasure chest is boundless. Each time I reach within I see you smiling
at my gesture for you, great Giver of Gifts, have placed each treasure there.
You greet my gift with welcoming pleasure when it returns back home to you.
Bestower of Gifts, thank you for all that my treasure chest of life holds.
I will look daily for my persistent star of recognition.
May it stand boldly over the house of my heart where you dwell,
so that I will be aware of your presence and pause to give you homage.
Gold, Frankinsense and Myrrh