The Epiphany of the Lord
Today’s Readings: Isaiah 60:1–6; Psalm 72:1–2, 7–8, 10–11, 12–13; Ephesians 3:2–3a, 5–6; Matthew 2:1–12. Today we hear how God’s light will radiate from his sacred city, Jerusalem, drawing to it the eyes and then the people of every nation on earth. Jews scattered during foreign invasions will return to their homeland. Gentiles, including kings, will join them, bringing incense to burn and animals to offer. They will build up the Temple and praise the Lord, the one true God.
The Magi were Gentiles who looked up and saw a great light. It led to Bethlehem, a tiny village.. The small house they entered was nothing like the Temple.
Nevertheless, when the Magi presented their gifts and prostrated themselves, the prophecy of our first reading began to be fulfilled. In humble surroundings, God’s plan of salvation was at last revealed. This plan did not unfold in the way people expected, but then God usually fulfills his promises in ways that startle and even frighten us.
The Magi followed the light and venerated the Lord. We must be like them. We must be Magi. We must move toward the light, bearing witness and paying homage to the Lord who has come among us.
© 2019 Liturgy Training Publications. 800-933-1800. Written by Edrianne Ezell. Permission to publish granted by the Archdiocese of Chicago on February 27, 2019.