Friday, January 6, 2023

Today’s Scripture Reading
Matthew 2:1–12

In the time of King Herod, after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, asking, “Where is the child who has been born king of the Jews? For we observed his star at its rising, and have come to pay him homage.” When King Herod heard this, he was frightened, and all Jerusalem with him; and calling together all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Messiah was to be born. They told him, “In Bethlehem of Judea; for so it has been written by the prophet: ‘And you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for from you shall come a ruler who is to shepherd my people Israel.’” Then Herod secretly called for the wise men and learned from them the exact time when the star had appeared. Then he sent them to Bethlehem, saying, “Go and search diligently for the child; and when you have found him, bring me word so that I may also go and pay him homage.”

When they had heard the king, they set out; and there, ahead of them, went the star that they had seen at its rising, until it stopped over the place where the child was. When they saw that the star had stopped, they were overwhelmed with joy. On entering the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother; and they knelt down and paid him homage. Then, opening their treasure chests, they offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. And having been warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they left for their own country by another road. (NRSV)

Reflection

An epiphany, in general terms, is a sudden realization, a flash of insight. “She had an epiphany!” In this story, the three wise ones have a religious epiphany, an illuminating experience of the divinity of the infant Christ. They see the Christ child in all his glory, and they worship him and shower him with gifts.   

Epiphany is the twelfth and last day of Christmas. In some countries, this day is celebrated with gifts and great joy and is known as Three Kings Day. In Puerto Rico, for example, businesses are closed, and it’s a day of celebration for the whole country. Historically, in the time of slavery, Three Kings Day was the only annual day off for Afro-Caribbean people, and this history is reflected in the enduring practices of celebration today.  

The birth of Christ was celebrated on January 6 throughout the Christian world until Constantine, in 325, moved the day of celebration to December 25, and January 6 became a day to celebrate Jesus’ baptism.  

Over time, our understanding of the rituals we share can change. The dates may change, our society changes, but the spirit of celebration endures. We celebrate the light, a star, that draws us toward hope, toward new life, toward love. Like the Wise Ones, we seek wisdom in our dreams and in God's dreams for us. 

On this day of Epiphany, let’s look for the appearance of God in our world, in our days, in our community.  

For more about Three Kings Day, see Professor Eliseo Pérez-Álvarez’s commentary.

Prayer

God of light and love, open our eyes that we may see you in our world. Let us see your image in those we encounter today. Let us bring our gifts of time, treasure, and talent to our communities, even as we welcome your presence with us. Amen.  

Written by Nanette Sawyer, Associate Pastor Discipleship and Small Group Ministry  

Reflection and prayer © Fourth Presbyterian Church

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