Solemnity of the Epiphany


Epiphany is a Greek word meaning “manifestation”. The Solemnity of the Epiphany celebrates the manifestation of God in Jesus of Nazareth, born in Bethlehem. Key witnesses to this transformational event in St Matthew’s gospel are Magi or “wise men” from the East. God has become “incarnate” (from the Greek in and carne (“flesh”)) in this baby – a Saviour not only for God’s people (Israel) but for all people including gentiles (non-Jews). The People of Israel presume that their Saviour will be one of them for only them. The Magi challenge this presumption. As gentiles, they acknowledge Jesus’ unique identity and destiny when Israel’s leaders do not. They travel vast distances to honour the Christ-child with their presence and gifts when Israel’s leaders, only 9km away in Jerusalem, collude with King Herod to eliminate the child because a potential King of the Jews threatens their status and privilege. Jesus will highlight this paradox during his ministry: that God chooses to reveal divine truth through the unlikeliest characters – encouragement to anyone who doubts their significance.

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