Mt. 2:1-12
Today we celebrate the solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord. We commemorate the visit of the magi and his self-revelation to the world as its savior. The magi coming from the east represent the gentile world seeking Christ, who is the light of the world. ‘They saw his star in the east,’ indicating all those who are in the valley of death and despair have seen the light. It was not a mere coincidence that these magi recognised the purpose of the special star that appeared in the sky. It was possible that many might have seen the special star appear in the sky. Yet only these three magi had the faith and desire to see the universal savior and new-born king of the Jews. They were chosen instruments of God to carry this light of salvation to the East. We need to keep our entire being alert to recognise God’s sign in our lives, like these Magi. In the book of Numbers (chapter 24), we come across the story of king Balak, who calls Baalam to curse Israel. The Lord intervenes, and his curses become blessings for the people of Israel. Finally, he prophesied the rise of the star, which indicates the everlasting kingdom in Israel. When the star appeared, only the Magi of the East could recognise it; unfortunately, the existing king of Judea, Heord, did not recognise it and did not reach out to the newborn.
We don’t know exactly where these Magi are from. We could only assume that they might have travelled from the Near East, which was known for the abundance of the gifts that they carried for the Saviour. The journey that they undertook to venerate the new born king was not at all easy. Because we assume they were from neighbouring countries, they did not need to cross the sea, but rather the desert.It is said that the climate in the desert is always extreme. it is extremely cold at night and extremely hot during the day. It is impossible to cross the desert without the support of a caravan, and also the challenges of heavy wind and pirates. Though they were aware of these challenges, they had only one focus and aim, to have the vision of the universal savior. They were ready to undertake any hardships for that. Nature supported their spiritual quest by providing a guiding star. They were blessed with mental and physical strength to withstand all the challenges. The journey of the magi indicates our own spiritual quest to see Jesus. There is no smooth road to him. Though the road is hard, we can be assured that we are cared for and supported by Providence in this journey of faith.
When Solomon was king of Israel, the queen Sheba presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.The magi bring the same gifts to Jesus, the royal son of King David. They realise that the new born is not in King Herod’s palace.They encounter the new born king in an ordinary situation; his parents were simple people, yet they prostrate themselves before the helpless child and offer all their gifts without resentment. Like these Magi, are we ready to give our best to Jesus?
Finally, the culmination of this spiritual journey can be seen in their personal transformation. They could have gone back to Herod’s palace to please him. But the angel intervenes and instructs them to collaborate with God’s plan to protect the new born king of Israel and saviour of the world. They abandoned their familiar roots and undertook a new root given by God. They were deeply touched by love and transformed by grace. Finally, we see the contradictory process happening to King Herod, all the learned and wise men of Israel. They consider the birth of a new baby a threat to their power. All these greedy men joined together to find the spot where he was born. When he learned that the magi had not returned, Herod issued an order to slaughter all of Israel’s firstborn without mercy or compassion.Instead of searching for the savior, they try to kill their savior. Though he could do more for the savior than anyone else, he failed and remained a threat. He did not have the privilege to see the new-born king.
As we reflect on this passage today, let us examine our faith journey along with that of the Magi. Are we alert enough to see the signs of God? Are we prepared to face the difficulties and challenges that come with encountering God and his experiences?Are we willing to give our all to the Lord even when our circumstances are as mundane as those of the manger?May the legacy of these magi inspire us to continue our faith journey with hope and perseverance.