GOD’S SALVATION IS UNIVERSAL

Homily for the Feast of the Epiphany of the Lord, Year B

Fr. Ugochukwu Ugwoke, ISch

Scripture Texts: Isaiah 55:1-11; Ephesians 3:2-3a, 5-6; Matthew 2:1-12

Today, we celebrate the Feast of the Epiphany of the Lord. The word “Epiphany” means manifestation or revelation, and in today’s readings, we encounter the profound truth that the Light of Christ was revealed to all nations, including the Gentiles. Isaiah’s prophecy in the first reading (Isaiah 60:1-6) emphasizes God’s plan to include the Gentiles in salvation. The Epiphany, that is, the public manifestation of Jesus as the light of the world fulfills this prophecy, revealing that Christ’s mission extends to all, breaking down barriers.

The Gospel reading from the gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 2:1-12) narrates the journey of the Magi, wise men from the East, who followed the star to find the newborn King. Their pilgrimage symbolizes the universal call to seek and encounter Christ. They were not part of the chosen people, yet they were drawn to the Light. Their visit reminds us that the light of Christ is not confined to a particular group. It transcends borders, cultures, and backgrounds, inviting all people to come and adore the Savior. In a world often marked by divisions, the inclusivity of the Magi’s encounter with Christ speaks to the universality of God’s salvation. It urges us to examine our hearts for biases, discrimination, prejudices, or exclusivist attitudes.

The Magi brought gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh to the new born King. These offerings are rich in symbolism, signifying Jesus’ kingship, divinity, and his sacrificial death. Each gift holds profound meaning in the story of salvation. Like the magi, consider the gifts you bring to the Lord. Are they gifts of your talents, time, or the offering of your heart? The Magi teach us that true worship of God involves giving of ourselves wholeheartedly to the King.

In the gospel also, we encounter two contrasting searches. Herod, the reigning king, represents worldly power and a fear-driven search for self-preservation. Learning of the birth of a potential rival, Herod’s intentions were not rooted in genuine worship but in securing his own position. Herod’s search reveals the destructive nature of unchecked power and the lengths to which fear can drive individuals. It prompts us to reflect on our own searches for control, recognition, or security and invites a deeper examination of our motives.

On the other hand, the Magi embarked on a quest driven by a different spirit. Their search is marked by a profound desire for something beyond themselves. The star that guided them is a celestial sign of God’s guidance. It led them to the source of true Light and Wisdom. The star reveals God’s desire to lead us on our journey of faith. The Magi’s journey symbolizes a search for meaning, truth, and divine encounter. Their openness to the leading of the star demonstrates a receptivity to God’s guidance. Their search challenges us to consider the motivations behind our own quests and whether they align with the pursuit of the divine.

Lastly, as we celebrate the feast of the Epiphany of the Lord, let us be inspired by the Magi’s openness to the Light, their generous offerings, and their willingness to embark on a transformative journey. May the revelation of Christ to the Gentiles remind us of the universal call to salvation and our role in spreading the Light of Christ to the ends of the earth. May this Feast of the Epiphany deepen our understanding of God’s inclusive love and empower us to be bearers of the Light in a world that still longs for the manifestation of God’s presence. Amen.