Epiphany: the Manifestation of Jesus

by Sister Sharon Smith, SCL

The Epiphany of the Lord is celebrated on January 7 this year. The word “epiphany” means “manifestation.” The Feast of the Epiphany celebrates the manifestation of Jesus to the world. Through the visit of the Magi, God is revealed in the person of Jesus.

Like the Magi, we are on a journey to encounter Jesus. We are all searching for God. We seek mercy, love, and meaning in our lives. We seek compassion and forgiveness. What path do we take? What “star” do we follow? Too often we settle for just wishing on a star instead of actively undertaking the journey that will lead us to the person of Christ.

Here are some specific ways we can celebrate the Epiphany in our own lives:

• Spend some time reflecting on your own journey to Christ. What has been your experience of God’s love and mercy in your life? How has God’s compassion and forgiveness been revealed or experienced in your life?
• Be present to others. When we are present to someone, we are listening to them without judgment. We are open to being moved by their story and offering our support.
• Pray for the grace to be a witness to the light of Christ in the world. Ask God to help you share God’s forgiveness and compassion with others. Perhaps with those on the margins or those who are estranged from family or friends.
• Consider joining us at Marillac Center for one of the following:
  •  January 8 from 10:30 a.m. – noon Boundless Compassion: Creating a Way of Life We will explore Sr. Joyce Rupp’s book “Boundless Compassion: Creating a Way of Life.” This will be a six week experience ending of February 12. Sr. Sharon Smith, SCL, will facilitate.
  • January 11 from 9:30 a.m. – 2 p.m. Beginning Anew Sister Noreen Walter, SCL, will facilitate this day of prayer exploring what is the “newness” you need in this new year.
  • January 20 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Good Grief Sr. Judith Jackson, SCL, will facilitate a day for those wanting to explore loss, grief, and the recovery of hope.

Please register for any of the above at www.retreats@scls.org

Let us Pray: Compassionate God, the Magi’s visit to the child Jesus announced to the world that its Savior was born. Today we live in a world that is still covered by darkness, and still needing to make that journey to the stable door. May our lives reflect your love and compassion day by day, as we seek to serve where you have placed us. May we be the means through which others can encounter Jesus Christ. This we pray in your name. Amen