The Feast of Epiphany calls for a thanksgiving celebration to God for revealing Himself to humanity. One of the prophetic voices that would prepare us to receive God echoes: “Arise and shine! Your light has come” (Cf Is. 60:1). While this call may seem to be for the “initial elect,” it will come to be for all. God in His infinite mercy came for all; gradually reveals Himself to all.
The story in Acts 10 about Peter’s encounter with Cornelius and his household helps us understand this grand purpose and plan of God for humanity. Peter was overwhelmed with gratitude when he “saw” this plan of God revealed as the Holy Spirit came down on the household of Cornelius. Thus, Peter exclaimed: “I truly understand that God shows no partiality, but in every nation anyone who fears him and does what is right is acceptable to him” (Acts 10:34-35). It is an exciting peaceful feeling when one realizes that you are known by God in a personal way. God made you for His purpose and intends to reveal Himself to you that you may truly walk with Him.
Wise Men
The wise men from the East saw His star at its rising. I do not think the magi recognized the worth of the star just because they were astrologers. Were they the only astrologers at that time? Is it part of their activity to always pay a visit to every “new born king”? While it might seem that they were used to “reading stars,” this trip to the “New Born King” was different in several ways.
First, they were excited to make the trip. The distance was not a problem, and neither was the location. All they wanted to do was to go and see the “New Born King.” When was the last time you went out of your way to obey the voice of Christ?
Second, these gentile kings went with gifts suitable to the New Born King. For us, we try not to come to God empty handed. If you have nothing, just do what Psalm 100:4 commands: “Enter His courts with Praise and Thanksgiving.”
Third, they prostrated. This shows the “New Born King” was not just an ordinary king and these gentiles knew it. They worshipped Him. Worship is not optional for humans. In fact, the true means of remaining connected with our maker is worship. Do you feel you worship God enough especially in the Eucharistic Liturgy?
Fourth, they listened to the instructions given to them in the dream. These men understood that not only had they embarked on an incredibly special journey but also that their lives have changed for the best with their encounter with Christ the New Born King. They went home through a different route. An encounter with Jesus immediately helps us not to return to old ways of cynicism (about the things of God), sin and Satan.
Finally, we see that a few Bible translations opt for the meaning of the word, magi to mean “wise men.” The Sacred Scripture affirms that wisdom of God will always swallow the wisdom of the world (Cf. Is 29:14; 1 Cor. 1:19). The “wise men” became truly wise after meeting with the Incarnate Wisdom.
