6 Jan
Sun
EPIPHANY OF OUR LORD (A)
Is. 60:1-6
Ps. 71:2,7-8,10-11,12-13
Eph. 3:2-3a,5-6
Mt. 2:1-12
(Psalter proper)
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There are really three 'epiphanies' or appearances of Jesus at this time of the year. The first is when Jesus is born in the stable at Bethlehem. It is a proclamation that Jesus has come with good news for the poor and marginalised of this world and he does that by being born in conditions which share their poverty. Today we have a different kind of Epiphany. Jesus is in Bethlehem but there is no mention of a stable. The emphasis here is on these outsider Gentiles coming a long distance to pay homage to the Child and bringing precious gifts. It is a message that Jesus as Lord has come for people all over the world and not just for His own people. The third epiphany will be when Jesus stands humbly in the River Jordan and is baptised by His cousin, John, where His real identity is revealed - "This is my beloved Son - listen to him." As 'Gentiles' we on this day should especially thank our God for coming specially for each one of us in His Son. And we should also let others know this Good News.



They entered the house and found the Child with Mary His mother.

DAILY OFFERING
Eternal Father, I offer You everything I do this day; my thoughts, words, joys and sufferings. Grant that, vivified by the Holy Spirit and united to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary, my life this day may be of service to You and to others. I also pray that all those preparing for marriage discover in Sacrament the source of Christ's grace for living a fithful and fruitful love. Amen.

PRAYING WITH THE CHURCH
INTENTION
That the Church may strengthen her commitment to full visible unity in order to manifest in an ever growing degree her nature as community of love, in which is reflected the communion of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit.
Elaboration

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