Isaiah 60:1–6
Psalm 72:1–2, 7–8, 10–11, 12–13
Ephesians 3:2–3a, 5–6
Matthew 2:1–12
In a world wrapped in confusion and frustration, the Solemnity of the Epiphany bursts forth with a word of hope: “Rise up in splendor, Jerusalem! Your light has come, the glory of the Lord shines upon you. See, darkness covers the earth, and thick clouds cover the peoples; but upon you the Lord shines, and over you appears his glory.”
The Magi come to Herod, seeking direction, and, as far as it goes, they are given the help that can be found from an earthly adviser. Ironically, Herod in this instance is willing to work with religious leaders to find an answer for those who are in search of the true King.
The encounter with the Child and His mother takes place, completing their journey, with heavenly aid because the star reappears to light their way. They are also invited by divine intervention to change their plans for the return trip, going home by a different route.
The consequences of this “change of plans” are dire for the residents of Bethlehem and the surrounding countryside due to Herod’s cruelty and his inability to attend to the divine signs that had guided the Magi. But the witness of the wise men from the East leaves its mark and stands as a beacon for all.
Following God’s will does not mean that we will have an easy time in this life. On the contrary, it often leads to times of struggle that are unforeseen. Gold and frankincense, the treasures of the Magi that the world can understand, point to fulfillment of the prophecies of old and to the divine dignity and power of the Child. The surprise gift of myrrh, not mentioned in the prophecies, alludes to the redemption of suffering that will be the Child’s destiny.
“Lord, every nation on earth will adore you.” The travelers from the East stand in for the nations at the birth of the Child of Bethlehem, the One destined to rule all nations. As they show homage, adoring Jesus when the earthly king plots His death, they remind us of our call to seek unity through our cooperation with divine grace.
God’s plan, the mystery that has “now been revealed to his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit: that the Gentiles are coheirs, members of the same body, and copartners in the promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel” is a promise for our times.
The events of the past few years have made known to us just how tenuous our life can be. In a moment, everything can change so dramatically that we hardly recognize what comes after. The violence of terrorism, the sad effects of COVID in all of its strains and the divisions evident among us caused by different ways of thinking all threaten to destroy our hope.
The Incarnation of God in our human nature is the truth expressed by the Epiphany. This is also a charge to see the world – and our own lives – from God’s point of view.
The Epiphany arms us with awareness that we are truly one. Every nation and people, every family and each unique individual are destined for a glory that is to be found in our own human nature through Jesus Christ. If we have the eyes to see it, everything is a grace.
Gold reminds us to give our best selves to the God Who offers salvation. Frankincense lifts our spirits, uniting us in worship and prayer before the one God, Who has sent His Son among us and Who empowers us by His Spirit to discover the mystery of our relationship with Him and with one another. Myrrh tempers our enthusiasm, challenging us to realize that the kingdom we see is not of this world but that we are destined to a higher realm, living God’s own life.
Let us continue to come to Him, bearing our gifts, ever willing to discover the journey He has in store for us. The Light has come, and every nation on earth will see the glory of God.