Homily: January 5, 2024; Feast of the Epiphany of the Lord (Kneel and Bow)

 "They were overjoyed at seeing the star, and on entering the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother. They prostrated themselves and did him homage."

The 12 days of Christmas bring us to the feast of the Epiphany, the revelation of our Lord to all the nations. The Christmas season will continue until next week, leading to the feast of the Baptism of the Lord.

What struck me most is the image of the Magi, who were non-Jewish foreigners, prostrating before the infant Jesus.

From both Scripture and tradition, we know the Magi were extraordinary people. They were likely scholars, wise men, astrologers, perhaps even kings or high-ranking officials from distant lands. They traveled hundreds of miles, driven by their search for a special newborn king, led by a most unusual, brilliant star.

And here they are, finally finding Him - not in a palace, not even in a grand mansion but in a simple, humble house. His parents were visibly not of royal lineage, and His circumstances gave no indication of earthly kingship. Yet, they believed the signs from their astrological studies, they trusted the guidance of the unusual star and finding what they were looking for, they bowed down, prostrated themselves, and did Him homage in the most reverend way. They adored infant Jesus like they would adore a great king, not just any king, but a most powerful and influential leader of the world.

The act of kneeling reflects humility and recognition of the higher status of the person we are kneeling to. The act of prostration reflects an attitude of submission. The magi prostrated themselves before Jesus. They recognized the kingship of Jesus and submitted themselves to His sovereignty.

They did not have generations of prophets to foretell and prepare them to expect this event, yet they were eager to offer their best and give the highest respect to little Jesus.

In contrast, Herod king of the Israelites, who had scripture and a history of prophets that had anticipated this event, was troubled and fearful more than joyful or pleased. Instead of paying homage to acknowledge the kingship of the newborn, he plotted to kill to terminate God’s plan.

What about us?

Do we recognize and acknowledge the kingship of Jesus?

Do we kneel and show respect before Jesus?

Do we spend time in adoration?

Mother Teresa would spend two hours daily in personal and community prayer. This tiny, five-foot-tall nun became one of the most recognized figures in the world, a living saint during her lifetime.

St. Pope John Paul II was also spending two hours in adoration every day, even with his demanding schedule.

These two were world figures, who led highly dedicated lives in service to God, Church and the world, yet they put aside time daily to acknowledge, submit and adore Jesus, their Master, teacher and Lord.

Thus, the whole world could see and experience the intensity of their faith through the works and service they had accomplished in their lives. Many have been inspired, converted and followed their example, even up to this day, many years after their death.

If we truly recognize Jesus as our Master, our King and our Lord, we too will always show the highest reverence to His presence, His sacrifice and His gift in the Holy Eucharist. 

We too would always offer the best of ourselves, to bow down, kneel and even prostrate our souls before the Lord, believing that He will grace us to live faithful and inspiring lives.

Let us, like the Magi, come before Jesus in humility, in adoration, and in total surrender.

Amen.