Epiphany of the Lord
Scripture:
Isaiah 60:1-6
Ephesians 3:2-3a, 5-6
Matthew 2:1-12
Reflection:
It 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.
-Ephesians 3:5-6
Behold, magi from the east arrived in Jerusalem, saying, “Where is the newborn king of the Jews?
-Matthew 2:1-2
On the website literaryterms.net, an epiphany is defined as, “…an “Aha!” moment. A[n] epiphany is the moment when a character is suddenly struck with a life-changing realization which changes the rest of the story. Often, an epiphany begins with a small, everyday occurrence or experience.” Today we celebrate the Epiphany of the Lord. The coming of Jesus the Christ can certainly be characterized as, “a life-changing realization which changes the rest of the story.” Even those living in 1st century Jerusalem were thrown into confusion and became “greatly troubled” when confronted with the news that a new king had been born. People do not generally like change, especially when it is not brought about be their own efforts and designs. We like to think we are in control of our own story. The Epiphany of the Lord reminds us that we are not in control of much.
But this feast day might better be called the Epiphany of Everybody. We are the ones who have the aha moment. And although the Greek word Paul uses is translated, “Gentiles,” (ethnos) is usually taken to mean non-Jews, it can also mean the whole of all living creatures, humanity and animals. This is the Epiphany of the Whole World, where all become co-heirs, co-partners, one body. In one small, everyday occurrence, the birth of a child, we all made one. The challenge of this great event is two-fold: can I accept this invitation for myself and can I recognize it in everyone I meet?
My prayer for myself today is that I actively work to be a co-partner with everyone I meet in creating God’s kingdom here on Earth.
Along with working as an independent teacher, Talib Huff volunteers and works at Christ the King Retreat Center in Citrus Heights. You may contact him at [email protected]