Stations of the Manger 11

Stations of the Manger 11. Epiphany

January 6th

Nativity Scene: The Wise Men and camels are added to the scene.

Scripture: (Matt. 2:1-12)
Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the east came to Jerusalem, saying, “Where is he that is born King of the Jews? For we saw his star in the east, and are come to worship him.” And when Herod the king heard it, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him. And gathering together all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Christ should be born. And they said unto him, “In Bethlehem of Judea: for thus it is written through the prophet. And you Bethlehem, land of Judah, are in no wise least among the princes of Judah: For out of you shall come forth a governor, Who shall be shepherd of my people Israel.”

Then Herod privately called the wise men, and learned of them exactly what time the star appeared. And he sent them to Bethlehem, and said, “Go and search out exactly concerning the young child; and when you have found him, bring me word, that I also may come and worship him.” And they, having heard the king, went their way; and lo, the star, which they saw in the east, went before them, till it came and
22stood over where the young child was. And when they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy. And they came into the house and saw the young child with Mary his mother; and they fell down and worshipped him; and opening their treasures they offered unto him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh. And being warned of God in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed into their own country another way.

Reflection: Even in the peacefulness of the Lord’s birth, those with out-of-control egos, hunger for power and full of fear, lurk to destroy. We must be watchful of those who seek to harm; but we must not stop our life of service to God. You serve Him by being who He made you – using your own unique set of talents and interests and abilities. God’s love will be proclaimed throughout the world as evidenced at the Epiphany.

Prayer: (Vidi Aquam)
I saw water proceeding out of the Temple; From the Right Side it flowed, Alleluia; And all those to whom that water came shall be saved, and shall say, alleluia, alleluia.

Hymn(s): We Three Kings

Response: The gifts of gold, frankincense (incense), or myrrh (incense or oils) that you present to Christ are the valuable gifts that God has given you: your unique, true self that resides in your heart. Stay with him on a spiritual level through your prayer, worship and meditation, and serve him on a physical level using those special interests, talents and abilities that only you have. Thank you for being who you are!

Blessings to all,

Daniel-Joseph