Greetings on this the Epiphany of the Lord
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
Summary
We saw his star at its rising and have come to do him homage (Mt 2:2).
Today’s Gospel is the manifestation to the nations.
Strangers are drawn. Gifts are offered. Joy is shared.
And the world is quietly reordered.
From of old, the Early Fathers understood the visit of the Magi as the beginning of the eternal nuptial mystery—the wedding of heaven and earth. The wedding is with all of us. The Gentiles are coheirs, members of the same body, and copartners in the promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel (Eph 3:6).
The nuptial reference is the three-fold manifestations:
- Baptism in the Jordan (cleansing of humanity)
- Visit of the Magi (the gathering of all in joy)
- Wedding at Cana (the New Wine)
Epiphany is not about visitors at a manger.
It is about the ingathering of humanity into Christ.
This is the nuptial mystery already at work:
heaven bending toward earth,
God receiving those who did not know they belonged.
Reflection
Epiphany asks only this:
What light have you seen—and are you willing to follow it far enough to be changed?
Sacred Readings full text: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/010426.cfm
Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry