The Feast of Epiphany

First Reading: Isa 60: 1-6

Second Reading: Eph 3: 2-3, 5-6

Gospel: Mth 2: 1-12

In Pursuit of the Magi,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,

The feast of manifestation of God in human form (Theophany – Epiphany). This is a significant event that commemorates the visit of the wise men to baby Jesus. The word ‘Epiphany’ comes from the Greek root which means ‘to reveal, show, appear’, indicating the manifestation of Jesus to the world; God in human form. According to the Gospel of Matthew, the three wise men were led by a star across the desert to the manger at Bethlehem (Bethlehem – house of bread). The tradition holds that these three wise men (kings) were Melchoir, Casper and Balthazar and they offered gifts of Gold, Frankincense and Myrrh symbolizing the royalty, divine birth and death of Jesus (Mth 2: 11; Isa 60: 6; Ps 72: 10, 11, 15).

The fascinating characters of this episode of gospel of Matthew are the wise men. The word ‘μάγοι’ has varied meanings: They could be;

1. Men belonging to Persian Priestly class.

2. Men skilled in philosophy, medicine and natural science and so possessors of supernatural knowledge.

3. Magicians.

Therefore, considering these possible meanings of the word  ‘μάγοι,  wise men’ is a  more closer and comprehensive translation.

The journey undertaken by these magi towards un unknown location in Bethlehem is very inspiring. Primarily, these wise men are from East and so, could of Gentile origin. Hence, this visit designates the universality of God’s reign and salvation. I derive the following points to enhance the beautiful journey of lives.

1. Journey towards a goal -  through an unknow path

The Magi were sure about the purpose and the goal of their long journey. They set out impelled by their desire to see and worship the King of the Universe. They knew well it is not an easy endeavor but a tedious and audacious journey. The star at its rising endorsed their purpose. Having commenced the journey, they do not take the risk of abandoning it midway. The path across the desert is unknown, sandy, hot, long and tiring but the goal is greater than these struggles.

2. It’s a journey together

The Magi journeyed together towards their destiny. It is not an individual enterprise. Perhaps they arrived their destiny withstanding enormous uncertainties on the way because they journeyed together. Unity is strength and it sustains us.

3. Seek help

The Magi were wise men, who knew the moments of the star, who were able to predict the future yet they were humble to seek help from others to reach the place to pay their tribute to the new born king. Seeking help from others is not a weakness instead it’s our strength.

4. Sharing of gifts

The Magi shared their gifts with baby Jesus. The value of the gift does not depend on its quantity but in its quality. A willing heart to share with others is what qualifies the value of the gift.

5. A focused journey

The journey of the Magi was a well-focused act. It was a full-time endeavor and not a part time devotion. It was certainly an attentive and concentrated journey through ups and downs of the valley. Herod like persons, events or things may misguide, allure and in those moments, it might require to deviate from the main path.

These wise men inspire us to the core, to set out on a long journey towards a destiny confirmed by our goal. The path may be untrodden, rough and disappointing, seeking help from others along the way, persevering through trails, one day we will reach our destination – an invisible God will be visible to us, our goal will embrace us. Bon Voyage,,,,,,