God Saves!

The Gospel story is presented in Matthew on this the Feast of the Epiphany, demonstrates that the promise of God is fulfilled in Jesus Christ.  Biblical scholars have helped us understand that these three travelers were neither astrologers (at least by our definition) nor were they kings.  Tradition offers us that these men were representative of the major peoples of the world.  Their gifts are symbolic, outlining the life and death of Jesus Christ.

This is a day in which we celebrate the great revelation that Christ is the light of the world.  The Prophet Isaiah acknowledges that the people of God had wandered in the midst of darkness.  To be sure politically and socially, but also n their moral status.  Isaiah reaffirms that God's desire is that all men and women walk in the light of the Lord God.  More so, God's love and mercy encompasses the entire humanity.  Where there was Sin and darkness, we have seen a bright light.

For us today it is valuable to embrace this Feast of the Epiphany as the universal outpouring of God's love.  The revelation of Jesus as the Christ creates an understanding for us that we are indeed loved by God, and anointed with the power of His Spirit.  Like the people surrounding the Christmas story our meeting Jesus changes our lives radically.  Further we are to become faithful witnesses of the mystery of faith which we celebrate.

The Magi literally go out of their way to find the Christ child.  in our world today we are likewise challenged to go out of our way to encounter Jesus.  Being the seekers of the holy and holiness, does not necessitate our hands being folded and our eyes rolled upwards.  It is good to reflect on the sacraments, ponder the scriptures, and engage in corporal and spiritual works of mercy.  Following the example of the Magi we are o respond to God's gift of love and mercy together.