Epiphany 2012

Epiphany means manifestation or appearing and epiphany is the time we remember the magi, the kings or three wise men as they followed the Star as seen in the gospel of Matthew.

But were the wise men really that wise?

When you look at the gifts for a baby it really does make you think doesn’t it.

Have you ever wondered why the three magi offered gold, frankincense and myrrh to baby Jesus? I mean a baby, what can a baby do with gold, frankincense or myrrh?

Let’s be clear here, the magi had travelled a very long way, probably from Judea via Bethlehem. They knew that they were going to visit a baby so maybe something a little more appropriate may have been in order.

What do we give our friends when their children are born?

If someone turned up at your door with some gold, frankincense and myrrh for your new-born what would you do?

I think I’d prefer some clothes, a huge stack of nappies, a bottle of wine to celebrate with or maybe something for mum.

The tradition in our church is to cook a meal for the family for the first week or so, maybe a well prepared Lasagne, a piping hot shepherd’s pie or homemade curry and this symbolizes the care and love which we have for each other…and in today’s world what an epiphany that can be.

And like this, the three magi had epiphanies that are reflected in the gifts for Jesus.

There was gold, – a gift that was fit for a King. The magi understood Jesus as their King.

Frankincense was a gift fit for a priest. The magi understood Jesus to be the priest, the advocate and the intercessor between God and man.

And there was myrrh. It was used to embalm the dead so they must’ve understood that this beautiful baby boy would give himself up for mankind.

Christ is revealed to the wise men as Light of the World, appearing to both Jew and Gentile, and manifesting the Glory of God for all to see.

May God surround you with light as you search for him in this Epiphany season.