The Epiphany of the Lord

Readings of the Day 

Today we celebrate the Feast of the Epiphany, a word that means "manifestation". On this day, in Matthew's Gospel (Matthew 2: 1-12), the Lord manifested himself to visitors. Some called them astrologers or kings, and others, Magi. This beautiful passage reveals that Jesus, the Son of God, has not just come for the favored Israelites but for any and all who come to know him through faith. 

While many of you may not be Catholic or even Christian, I believe that without proselytizing and trying to convert others to our faith, our call is to manifest God/ Jesus to others. Whether working with immigrants, human trafficking, helping the food deprived, providing shelter for the homeless, and all the other things we do, can people see God in us? I remember learning years ago the difference between a disciple and an apostle. Jesus had 70 disciples but chose 12 of them to be apostles. Disciples are followers of Jesus. Apostles are sent forth to proclaim his presence in the world. Are you a disciple? I suspect so. But, are we apostles? Maybe not so much. 

So, on this feast day, I hope people can see God through us and that we are the manifestation of God's presence in a world, particularly during the pandemic, that has been turned upside down. 

Merry "little Christmas." Enjoy the day. This year sense that you are being sent by God to bring his love, peace, and joy to all we serve through Catholic Charities.  

Fr. John Enzler is the President and CEO of Catholic Charities in the Archdiocese of Washington for the last decade. 

View this message in your browser. 
Forward this message.
Update your email preferences.