I write this on January 6th, the day of Epiphany; the day we remember this event from Scripture –
In the time of King Herod, after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, 2 asking, “Where is the child who has been born king of the Jews? For we observed his star at its rising, and have come to pay him homage.”
9 When they had heard the king, they set out; and there, ahead of them, went the star that they had seen at its rising, until it stopped over the place where the child was. 10 When they saw that the star had stopped, they were overwhelmed with joy. 11 On entering the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother; and they knelt down and paid him homage. Then, opening their treasure chests, they offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. (Matthew 2:1-2, 9-11, NRSV)
The wise men (or Magi) came with gifts for Jesus. They came to pay their respects to the King of kings. Yet, I have to wonder – is this an isolated occurrence? Does it only happen once? So often we have heard of the twelve days of Christmas – the time between Christmas and Epiphany where the gift-giving keeps on going (and this seems even more appropriate this year with the delay in many packages arriving at their destinations!).
However, the reality is that Epiphany is not just a single day, but an entire season. From January 7th through Shrove Tuesday (this year February 16th), we mark the Season of Epiphany. This season is to be a time of reflection, a time to seek out and find the places where Jesus appears, where he is manifested in our lives. Like the wise men, we are called to be ever-seeking the King of kings, whereever he may be in our travels. Upon finding him, we are called to bring him our gifts – our time, talents, and presence – that we may pay homage to him, too.
So, as this new year begins, let us all approach this season with eyes looking, ears listening, hearts seeking the presence of Christ. You never know where you might find him. You never know what he may look like. You never know how far you may have to travel in life. You never know, except that he is present and ready for you. Let us prepare ourselves for the journey ahead. Let us prepare one another. Let us prepare others. For the King of kings is here and all honor and glory is due him. Amen? Amen!
Pastor Steve