Epiphany of the Lord– Matthew
2:1-12
Today is a wonderful feast in our Church calendar: the Epiphany of our Lord! Have you ever had an “epiphany?” When was the last time you had an
“epiphany?” An “epiphany” may simply be
a sudden realization or a moment of clarity.
Naturally, the epiphany this feast celebrates is the manifestation of
Jesus as “king of the Jews” and of the world.
This Gospel opens the magi arriving in Jerusalem. I assume their presence caused quite a stir. They kept asking, “Where is the newborn king
of the Jews?” We read that King Herod
and “all of Jerusalem” were troubled by their question. Herod
immediately called his advisers together and asked them where this “Jesus” was
to be born. The priests informed Herod
that according to the prophecies in the Scriptures, the “Christ” was to be born
in the land of Judah.
Herod then quietly called the magi in. He told them to go and search for the child. And when they found him, the Magi were to
send word to Herod. Herod told them that
he also wanted to offer homage to the child.
We know the rest of the story. The Magi followed the brilliant star they had
seen at its rising. Eventually the star
led them to the dwelling where the Child was: a lowly stable. Can you imagine how astonished the kings must
have been to find this holy Child in a manger surrounded by animals? Yet, despite these very unusual and humble
circumstances, the kings instantly recognized the Christ Child.
Today may we look for the Child King in our midst. Jesus
is there, but we must have open hearts, minds, and eyes. We have the ability to see Him! Will we keep looking for Him until we find
Him?
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