The house in which I grew up was about a mile from “town”–the drugstore, post office, church & school; and since my folks had no car, I usually walked to Scouts, Youth Groups and gathering with friends. Although there were several houses scattered along the road, it was pretty dark! But every 300 yards or so, there were borough street-lights which gave a meager sanctuary from the Things That Go Bump in the Night. Did I tell you about the cemetery? And the grove of Norway Spruce that groaned and creaked in the wind? I learned to be a really fast walker, sometimes almost sprinting between the small glimmers of light…
We’re about to celebrate Epiphany, a whole season of light! “Epiphany” is Greek for “a revelation”, a sudden enlightenment. Readings for Sunday and six weeks following will tell of God’s Glory being manifest within a dark world. Starting with Isaiah, we’re urged to “Arise, shine; for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you.” (60:1) Yes, the earth seems drowned in darkness; but, People of God, “his glory will appear over YOU. Nations shall come to your light, and kings (three?) to the brightness of your dawn.” (v.2) “They shall bring gold and frankincense, and shall proclaim the praise of the Lord.” (v.6)
Paul’s enthusiasm is more subtle, yet he speaks to the Ephesian Church about “the mystery of Christ”. “Although I am the very least of all the saints, this grace was given to me to bring to the Gentiles the news of the boundless riches of Christ, and to make everyone see what is the plan of the mystery hidden for ages in God who created all things…” (3:1-12) Lessons for Epiphany center on the “Go, Tell” concept; Paul sees an Apostle’s duty as showing the places where Divine Understanding shines through.
Matthew’s Gospel tells the Three Kings story, without which Christmas would be lacking. For these were Gentiles, probably unaware of Messianic hopes and predictions. And because they were Gentiles, we too obtain credentials to peer into the manger! Many images can nourish us: a majestic star; kneeling in reverence before the Holy Family; offering of sacred gifts; and, no means least, returning home “by another way”.
Star-chasers all, we make journeys to holy sites where God has dwelt among us. The pilgrimage itself is a form of commitment, as is the selection of meaningful treasure. Having glimpsed Divine Glory, we can no longer travel in the same way, for we’ve changed and must take a new road. As this New Year unfolds, I wish you an exhilarating journey to and with God! May you be constantly changed by the Baby in the Manger!
God Bless Us, Every One! Horace Brown King
My Blog 
Leave a comment