I meant to mention this in services today, but forgot to do so in the 9:15 service. Today is Epiphany Sunday on the traditional Church Calendar. This day marks both the end of the 12 Days of Christmas (also a season in the Calendar), and celebrates the arrival of the Magi in response to the appearance of the Star. The word "epiphany" means "appearance" or "revealing" or "manifestation," and the appearance of the star led to the appearance of the Wise Men.
What makes the day worth celebrating is that it reminds us the Messiah was not just King of the Jews, but was truly for all people--the Magi, after all, were all Gentiles. If you want an insight into how they might have known in Persia what this Star meant, read my previous post below.
Since the story in Matthew tells us that the Magi visited a house and a young child in Bethlehem, not a baby, it is most likely that the Magi did not arrive until after the birth, and possibly much later than just 12 days! This is why I liked to put the Wise Men from our manger set on the other side of the room when the kids were small!
In any event, rejoice that the Messiah has come, and that he has come for all people!
No comments:
Post a Comment