Page 5 - LUDLOW TOWER JAN 22 (WEBSITE)

epiphany - the manifestation of

christ to the gentiles

Brightest and best of the sons of the morning,
dawn on our darkness, and lend us thine aid;
star of the east, the horizon adorning,
guide where our infant Redeemer is laid.

Cold on his cradle the dew drops are shining;
low lies his head with the beasts of the stall;
angels adore him in slumber reclining,

Maker and Monarch and Saviour of all.
(Reginald Heber)

The arrival of the Magi to bring gifts and Perhaps in the example of such people

worship the infant king must surely have as Marcus Rashford, who persuaded the
been not only a surprise but a great government to provide free meals for
mystery to the Holy Family. It is thought children during the school holidays.
by some that the three kings represent Or the five-year-old Tony who, inspired
the rich nations of the world, bringing as by Captain Tom, set about fund-raising
they do such costly gifts: by walking miles, despite having had both

Sacred gifts of mystic meaning: legs amputated as a result of parental
incense doth their God disclose, abuse. He raised over £100,000 for a
gold the King of kings proclaimeth, local hospital.
myrrh his sepulchre foreshows. In recent days too, the daughter of

Vainly we offer each ample oblation, refugees from Nazi Germany gave a
vainly with gifts would his favour secure: home to an Afghan family. Once more,

richer by far is the heart's adoration, the nations of the world come together
dearer to God are the prayers of the poor. with shared compassion and generosity
of spirit and priceless gifts from the
(Reginald Heber)
heart, as this verse from Christina
As we journey through the season of Rosetti's carol reminds us:
Epiphany, we witness the manifestation What can I give Him , poor as I am?
of Christ at His baptism in the River If I were a shepherd, I would bring a lamb.
Jordan; at the wedding in Canaa in If I were a wise man, I would do my part.

Galilee, where He turned water into Yet what I can I give Him: give my heart.
wine; and in His healing miracles. This
prompts the reflection: where might we Prebendary Ann Barge
find such manifestations of Christ-like
service today?

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