Opening Prayer Series: Feast of Epiphany Year A

OPENING PRAYER SERIES:

Feast of Epiphany Year A

 The Mass: Opening Prayer Series Icon

OPENING PRAYER

The Opening Prayer of the Feast of the Epiphany reads as follows:

Let us pray

(that we will be guided by the light of faith)

Father,

You revealed Your Son to the nations by the guidance of a star,

Lead us to Your glory in Heaven by the light of faith.

REFLECTION QUESTIONS

In making this prayer tangible the following reflection questions emerged.

1.            What does it mean for me to be guided by the light of faith?

2.            What is the light of faith?

3.            Is the star of Christ burning brightly enough in me to draw others to Christ?

4.            How can I reveal Your Son to others this week/month/year?

5.            Why is it important for me to desire the glory of Heaven?

6.            What difference does the feast of the Epiphany have in my life?

For the alternative opening prayer and reflection questions, refer to my post of the Epiphany 3 January 09.

GOSPEL REFLECTION.

The Magi were most likely wise men from Arabia who made a special study of astrology. Due to this they were believed to have knowledge beyond that of humans. Later, they became portrayed as Kings. In the adoration of the Magi, the prophecies foretelling the honour which the people would give to the God of Israel were fulfilled . In the Magi, the Fathers of the Church saw in their gifts symbols of Christ's royalty Gold, Incense-divinity and Myrrh- Passion. The Feast of the Epiphany is the manifestation of the Son of God made man.

It is interesting to note the reaction of Herod who was governed by power and who

·                     felt threatened at the possibility there may be another king (someone to threaten his job), 

·                     played the game pretending he wanted to worship also (sought out information about the threat and how he might overcome the enemy).

The Magi however stayed focused on what they came to seek- they were guided by the star, which filled them with delight because it helped them find what they came to seek- Jesus, Mary and Joseph in the manger. They were able to do him homage and offer their gifts.

We too need to stay focused and to give the Christ child homage- let us bend our knees and offer our gifts to Him. Let us stay focused and be guided by the light of the star of faith during this Christmastide and throughout 2011.