Epiphany
On January 6th we celebrate the three wise men and their visit to Jesus, as we know they brought gifts of Gold Frankincense and myrrh valuable gifts indeed. As we reflect on the Magi and their gifts we should also reflect on humble start of the church: Jesus was born in a stable as there was no room in the inn. Jesus gave us the Eucharist at the Last supper in the upper room . There he told his apostles as he tells us today do this in memory of me when he blessed the bread and wine he said this after washing the disciples feet remember the Master of the household did not wash the feet of anyone. Jesus died on the Cross with two thieves one on each side of him no Gold frankincense or Myrrh there just the words of the thief when he said Jesus remember me when you come into your kingdom. The Magi from the east, guided by a star, sought the newborn King of the Jews in Jerusalem, unsettling King Herod and the city.
Informed by religious leaders about the prophesied birth in Bethlehem, Herod deceitfully instructed the magi to report back after finding the child. Following the star, the magi reached Jesus, worshiping Him and offering gifts. They returned home by another way to avoid Herod. In the gospel reading for this feast the Wise men represent the “mystery” of the son of God made manifest in human life by becoming one with us and like us. By their very nature they are seekers, people who came looking for the “king of the Jews.” Where would they find this royal child? Not in the courts of the powerful, like Herod. He was an example of how those in power would react to the gentle one who would draw all people into his kingdom. Jesus was not born in a mighty city, nor was he an heir to a powerful ruler. Instead, he was born in Bethlehem. it was a backwater in the eyes of those of Herod’s court and the religious leaders in Jerusalem.
We, like the wise men, will find Christ among the “least.” and this is the message, that lies at the heart of our gospel for today. The call of the Savior is given to each of us. What do we hear? Will we believe what we hear and see as the Wise men did? we are not going to be able to bring Gold Frankincense and Myrrh to the Lord instead we bring the priceless gift which is our faith and belief in Christ the Son of God. Our faith in Jesus enables us to bear witness to him as a light for all the nations. Like the wise men we come to worship the one we have found in the manger and then go out and share with everyone out there the treasure we have received kneeling at the crib like the wise men
Fullerton T 