Epiphany

So, there are many tacts that one could take for today's feast.

Certainly an important aspect is how the universal nature of Salvation is forshadowed in the coming of the Magi from the East.

The Secret (Prayer over the Gifts) hints at the symbolism contained in the gifts presented by the Magi.

I went with a slightly different tact for today:

How often do we miss the signs that God is doing around us?

King Herod was at least part Jewish, he should have known the Scriptures, he should have known the prophecies as they concerned the Christ; especially since he was the 'King' and the Messiah was reputed to be after his job, so to speak.

Yet, when these Magi show up, he acts as if he has never heard the prophecies and has to consult with the chief priests and the scribes as to where the Christ was to be born.

On the flip side, the Magi arrive being so in tune with what God is doing, even though they are outside of the Covenant, that they are able to recognize how nature, through the appearence of the start, is exulting in the coming of the New Born King of the Jews.

How often do we miss what God is revealing to us, through the Scriptures, through the leadership of the Heirarchy, through the Sacraments, and yes then even through nature.  (notice the order, nature is last!)

That's at least a snapshot of my homily for today given out at St. Angela Merici Parish in Brown County, about an hour east of downtown Cincinnati.