Word to the Wise
Sunday, January 6, 2013 - The Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord - ABC [This feast was traditionally celebrated on Jan. 6; in the USA it is now on the Sunday after Jan. 1]
[Isa 60:1-6; Eph 3:2-3a, 5-6; Matt 2:1-12]We saw his star at its rising and have come to do him homage. [Matt]
Before we hear the story of the Magi, he listen to Isaiah and Psalm 72. Isaiah speaks of "caravans of camels" bearing "gold and frankincense, and proclaiming the praises of the Lord." Psalm 72 says "All kings shall pay him homage, all nations shall serve him..." The evangelist, Matthew, would have been aware of these prophecies and those about Bethlehem. It is all part of a rich tapestry in a tradition that is easily recognizable to us now. Those exotic Magi from afar read the sign in the heavens and come from afar to worship and bring gifts. In doing so they unintentionally endanger the life of the newborn "king of the Jews." Yet, the feast of the Epiphany is not really about these intriguing visitors! It is about the revelation of God incarnate! Epiphany means to "shine forth."
Revelation is the watchword for today. The revelation is not only for the Chosen People but for the whole world. A pagan centurion and a Canaanite woman will come to Jesus in his ministry. Recognition of Jesus' identity as the Messiah will indeed endanger his life. Jesus is indeed the fulfillment of the prophecies. All of this is threaded through the story of the Magi. We may be fascinated by these visitors and their gifts, but we must not forget that we are really part of the caravan and there is someone much greater to fascinate us in this story. Get your gifts ready! AMEN