Sisters of St. Francis of the Holy Cross in Green Bay, WI

Reflection for Jan. 8, 2017

by Sister Charlene Hockers

“We have seen his star in the East, and have come with gifts to adore the Lord.”
“This is my Beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.”

We are coming to the end of celebrating a glorious liturgical season: Advent, Christmas, and now the Epiphany on Sunday and the Baptism of Jesus on Monday. We will take a moment to reflect on these mysteries.

The Wise Men had traveled from the East following the star. When they found the Messiah, they presented their gifts to Him. We also follow the star through the promptings of the Holy Spirit, who will help us recognize Jesus as He breaks into our lives. In ordinary and surprising ways, we find the Lord through the Scriptures, the Sacraments, creation and in our own personal lives. In order to BE epiphany to others, we strive to be persons of selfless love. We celebrate in gratitude and awe!

Since the Baptism of Jesus is celebrated the next day, let us fast forward from the Child Jesus to the adult Jesus at the Jordan to be baptized by John. At the end of this event, we hear how the heavens opened and the Father proclaimed, “This is my Beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” As Jesus was encouraged by His Father, so, we too, are encouraged and guided by the Spirit in our daily life. We recognize that encouragement through our family, co-workers, and friends. We hear the voice of God in the quiet of our hearts.

Who encourages me? Whom do I encourage? We invite Jesus to break into our lives as we listen, encourage, and give ourselves in selfless love!

“You are His beloved, in whom I am well pleased.”

 

Charlene, thank you so much for this beautiful reflection on the meaning of epiphany and the Baptism of the Lord. What a gift to all of us.

Sister Charlene: Very inspiring reflection! Thank You.

Thanks Sr Charlene for a very inspiring reflection. Thank you for the gifts of perservance, joy, and prayerfulness you bring to Community life.

Sister Charlene...Thank you for your beautiful reflection as we
begin the new year.

"Bright Morning Star, shine on me, that your love is reflected through me." Amen.

Thank you Sister Charlene for your wonderful reflection and questions to ponder while (hearing the voice of God in the quiet of our heart).

Thank you for your VERY encouraging words in this beautiful season of winter.

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