On the feast of the Epiphany, we celebrate the intense appearance or manifestation of the Lord. The wise men who were looking for the newborn King following the star represents each of us. We must pray that we may be attentive to the intense manifestation of God’s power in our lives. All the time, God shows himself into our lives but hidden. We must open ourselves to those moments of God’s powerful manifestations in our existence.
The Epiphany means exactly this, Christ Jesus, true God, symbolized in the frankincense offering, and true Man, symbolized in the beautiful gift of the myrrh, and the newborn King, symbolized in the offering of gold. These can be revealed to anyone and in different ways, places, times and cultures. Like these unexpected strangers, may we offer to Jesus, adoration and honor and praise. He deserves the best treasures of our lives.
In Christ, the new light shines on the whole world. Isaiah 60:1-6 expresses this in these words: “Arise, shine for your light has come and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you…And nations shall work upon you and kings in brightness of you rising”. With Christ, all people, all the nations have got the opportunity to walk in the light. For Paul to the Ephesians (3:2-3), Epiphany is indeed the manifestation of Jesus as the Son of God even to the Gentiles, understood as even to the pagans. All can now walk in light of God. We are heirs of the light. Do not walk in darkness anymore!
Finally, we see in today’s Gospel of Matthew, chapter 2, the fulfilment of the words of Isaiah. The magi empty their riches before the Lord. Nations will come and give: gold, frankincense and myrrh and incense. We are invited to open ourselves in thanksgiving and adoration to the Lord. Our response to the light of God is to give ourselves as a gift to the Lord Jesus, to our family and to his Church. Our response to the Epiphany is stewardship, “Give to Jesus 10% of your Time”, “Give to Jesus 10% of your Talents”. “Give to Jesus 10% of your Treasure or financial resources”. Rejoice in the Epiphany and walk in the light. Indeed, you are one of the wise men!
Happy and prosperous new year 2024!
Fr. Georges Roger BIDZOGO SAC
Gratitude in the midst of storms! Blessings for 2024!
In spite of the demise of my grandmother, Marie Eyenga and I believe many of us have been through horrible predicaments, I would like to thank God and express my appreciation to everyone. I am positive! I am thankful and I am Grateful! No matter what happened, let us remember the words of Jesus “I have told you this so that you might have peace in me. In the world you will have trouble, but take courage, I have conquered the world.” (John 16:33) There are many things that might have sadden us or frustrates our peace, but we must train our mind to see good even in the midst of challenges for the word of God reminds us that “in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” (Romans 8:28). Find in all that you went through the silver linings, the hidden blessings, and the opportunity for growth, sanctification and glorification. As you know well, whatever that does not kill you, strengthens you and remember the words of Karla Pope and Alesandra Dubin: “Life is like a bicycle. To keep your balance, you must keep moving”.
As we bid farewell to 2023 and step into the unknown 2024, let our gratitude, confidence, optimistic faith be our guiding compass. May the word of God in the liturgy, our daily rosary, our adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, strengthen our resilience and our faith, and so illuminate our path forward. In that line, our unwavering appreciation for God’s blessings should enable us to totally commit our lives in the service of our beloved Parish, Holy Redeemer Church. Our stewardship is indeed a bold reminder for each of us that, no matter what the storms we face, the seeds of gratitude are always within us, waiting to blossom.
May the Lord bless you with good health, peace, joy, spiritual and financial breakthrough throughout this year 2024 and beyond. Amen!
Happy new year 2024!
Fr. Georges Roger BIDZOGO SAC