The Epiphany highlights the transformative journey from servitude to sonship, symbolized by the different ways priests and servers exit the church, reflecting the path taken by the Three Kings and the teachings of Saint Paul.
The Epiphany is a significant feast in the Christian liturgical calendar, marked by unique customs and profound theological implications. One of the most notable practices during the vigil of the Epiphany is the way priests and servers enter and exit the church. Unlike other days, they may enter from the sacristy and exit through the nave, or vice versa. This ritual is steeped in meaning, drawing from the biblical narrative of the Three Kings.
The Gospel recounts that after adoring the infant Jesus, the Three Kings chose to return to their homeland by a different route. This decision was not merely practical; it was a deliberate choice to avoid Jerusalem, where King Herod sought to kill the Christ child. This act symbolizes a transformation and a new beginning, reflecting the essence of the Epiphany.
The vigil of the feast also recalls the story of Saint Joseph, who, after fleeing to Egypt with Mary and Jesus, did not return to Judah but instead went to Nazareth. This choice was made to evade Herod's murderous intentions. Both narratives emphasize the importance of our relationship with Christ and the transformative journey that follows an encounter with Him.
The Epistle from Saint Paul during the vigil provides further insight into this transformation. It articulates the journey from servitude to sonship: "We come as servants but we're meant to go as Sons." This profound statement encapsulates the Christian journey. We begin our lives as slaves to sin and the elements of this world, but through Christ, we aspire to become heirs of eternal life.
The devil, akin to Herod, desires for us to exit this world as we entered it—bound by sin and devoid of Christ. We are born into a state of sin, and the enemy wishes for us to die in that same state. However, the Epiphany teaches us that through Christ, we can choose a different path, one filled with the spirit of sonship, crying out "Abba Father."
A question arises: why do priests and servers not follow this custom of entering and exiting differently every day? The answer lies in the nature of the Mass itself. On most days, the priest represents Christ, who, at the Ascension, was told by angels that He would return in the same manner as He left. This signifies the eternal union of Christ's humanity with His divinity, a constant connection with God the Father and the Holy Spirit.
The Feast of the Epiphany invites us to seek out the Child Jesus and His mother, to kneel in adoration, and to receive an increase of life and grace in our souls. Despite the threats posed by the devil, who seeks to lead us astray, we are called to be preserved in our faith.
As we reflect on the teachings of Saint Paul regarding resurrection, we are reminded that our departure from this world can indeed be different from our arrival. We are sown perishable but raised imperishable; we are sown in dishonor but raised in glory. This transformation is the essence of the Epiphany, encouraging us to embrace our identity as sons and daughters of God.
In conclusion, may this Epiphany bless you with the grace to navigate your spiritual journey, allowing you to exit this world in a manner that reflects the glory of your relationship with Christ. God bless you all during this blessed season and throughout the year 2023.
