LIFT THE VEIL

“They were overjoyed at seeing the star.” —Matthew 2:10

One of the prayers of the faithful for today’s Epiphany Mass reads: “That the Church, like the Star of Bethlehem, will draw the world to worship Jesus Christ.” Epiphany is a great feast of unveiling. Christmas was a revelation to the few; Epiphany is a revelation to the nations. In an unveiling, the veil is lifted, for all to see clearly. First, the Magi saw clearly, then, through them, all nations can see. We are to be like those who lift the veil.

In a wedding, the father traditionally lifts the veil from the bride, and then the husband can clearly see her. May we likewise help unveil Jesus — by teaching His Word, by healing, exhorting, by adoring and worshipping Jesus and letting our light shine and thus illuminating the way (Mt 5:14-16).

We are to lead people to be brides of Christ. The bride is veiled in preparation for the wedding. We help lift the veil so the bride can see her husband. Let us lead people to the crucified Christ by proclaiming His death. As Jesus died, the veil was torn away (Mt 27:51) and access to the Father was unveiled. Help people turn to the Lord so “the veil will be removed” (2 Cor 3:16). Then they will see the Lord “with unveiled faces” (2 Cor 3:18). Lift the veil.

Prayer: Father, may my life always lead others to Jesus.

Promise: “The lives of the poor He shall save.” —Ps 72:13

Praise: “A star shall advance from Jacob, and a staff shall rise from Israel” (Nm 24:17). Risen Jesus, through Your Epiphany, may our freshly unveiled eyes recognize the harvest (see Jn 4:35).