EPIPHANY OF THE LORD

This story begins by ancient wise ones appreciating a stellar anomaly. A bright star shining in the sky and a decision to follow a prophecy’s truth, the sign of wonder. How does one follow a star? By keeping one’s focus on it. Was the star seen during the day as well?

These ancient ones must have had doubts as they got closer to the site. The promised child swaddled in cloth to be found in a cave, a barn, a stable with animals? Such a contradiction to what might have been expected. However, God’s desire to widen the circle of belonging, of inclusion for all – it was the perfect place. Only those with pure intentions would believe and come bearing gifts to honour a helpless baby and his chosen parents.

We are invited to begin our own journey during this season of Incarnation. We are invited to be pilgrims of hope as the year of Jubilee begins. Jubilee is the reason for the incarnation, of Jesus’ coming to earth, to re-establish God’s intent: “to bring good news to the poor; to proclaim liberty to captives; and recovery of sight to the blind; to let the oppressed go free; to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favour (Luke 4:18-19).”

How will we walk this journey this year? What gift will we offer the Christ Child?

Will we forgive someone we hold in the captivity of our anger?

Will we ask forgiveness for someone we have cast out?

Will we work to free developing countries from colonial abuses of outrageous financial burdens and unpayable debts?

Will we walk more tenderly upon the earth so it can breathe and recover from climate crises?

Loving Creator, living Christ, help us to walk as pilgrims of hope during this Jubilee year!  Amen.

Pat Carter, CSJ is a disciple, a teacher and an advocate for the poor. She has been a Sister of St. Joseph for more than half of her life and loves to use words to inspire faith and laughter. She is a cantor at her parish of St. Jerome’s in Sault Ste. Marie.