Saint Gertrude Parish - Lasne
Saint Gertrude Parish
Holy Year 2024
Epiphany of the Lord
When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy.
Matthew 2:10
Epiphany, in Greek, means "manifestation." In the West, we commemorate the visit of the Magi: through this event, the Lord "manifests" himself to the Gentiles, and therefore to the world. In the Eastern Churches, this solemnity emphasizes the Trinitarian "manifestation" at the baptism of Jesus in the Jordan. While Christmas Day is centered on the birth of the Child, Epiphany underscores that this poor and weak Child is the Messiah King, the Lord of the world. Epiphany fulfills the prophecy of Isaiah, which the liturgy has chosen as the first reading: "Arise and clothe yourself with light, for your light has come" (Isaiah 60:1ff), as if to say: do not withdraw, do not be discouraged, do not remain a prisoner of your "convictions," do not become demoralized, react, "lift up your eyes!" Like the Magi, look at the stars and you will find the star Jesus. (cf. Vatican News)
The "Magi" represent all pagans (and all unbelievers) throughout history. And in these words, we mean no pejorative meaning whatsoever; quite the contrary! Many among our friends are perfectly sincere in their convictions, lead upright lives, possess a sense of justice and service to others, have exemplary family lives, and fulfill their professional duties admirably. Yet, they do not know Jesus Christ in the truest sense. Epiphany is the feast of all those who do not know Jesus, of all those whose faith differs from ours, and whom God loves, whom God enlightens, and whom God draws to Himself by His invisible grace.
But how do we judge them?
This is what the prophet wrote: “And you, Bethlehem in Judea… from you will come a ruler who will shepherd my people Israel.”
Why, tell me, didn't the star lead the wise men directly to Bethlehem, to Jesus?
Why this detour through Jerusalem, through the "scribes and priests"? Because God is faithful to his promises, and while salvation is offered to all, it comes through the Jews (Romans 9:10-11).
This detour through Jerusalem also has significance. It shows that we cannot bypass the "Word of God," the "Scripture," for an explicit encounter with Christ. And what about us? Do we tirelessly meditate on the Word? On the "writings"?
They opened their chests and offered him their gifts... They returned to their country by another route.
"Worship" is one of the essential functions of the Church: true worship is to "consecrate to God the fruit of human and earthly labor, and therefore, ultimately, all the values upon which civilizations live. The encounter with Christ transforms a life: another path opens... What good news, Lord!"
Commentary by Father Christmas Quesson
Word of God for each Sunday
Droguet & Ardant Publishers