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January 1, 2022Reflection for Epiphany 2022
Isaiah 60:1-6: In this passage, Israel, Zion or the Church can be seen, symbolically, as the “new Jerusalem,” with world-wide authority or leadership over all the nations. Jerusalem, (the Church or Zion) is seen as radiating the glory of God, or the Light of truth and wisdom, bestowed on it by God. Nations and even Kings are seen as coming to the Church in search of its truth, wisdom and grace. Isaiah then prophecies future prosperity for Zion, with images of the riches of the sea (nature) as well as the wealth of nations being lavished upon Jerusalem, as tribute to her. This bestowal of gifts in tribute to Zion prefigures the lavish gifts of the Magi to the infant Jesus. The entourage from Sheba bearing gold and frankincense is a prelude to the very gifts the Magi brought to the infant Christ; gold, frankincense and myrrh.
Psalm 72: “Lord, every nation on Earth will adore You.” This is a “royal psalm,” said to refer to King Solomon, but may also be interpreted as referring to the coming Messiah, (Jesus). In the first stanza, the psalmist prays for God to give the King an inspired sense of justice and good judgment; reflecting the transcendent wisdom that Solomon requested and received from God. In the next stanza, societal justice and peace are promised the King along with rulership over the whole earth. Next, the vision of tribute by kings and leaders of all nations is again evoked; recalling again the visit and tributes of the Magi to the infant Lord, Jesus. Lastly, the kindness and sensitivity and mercy of the prophesied king are proclaimed and, once again, this description could apply to Solomon or Jesus. Certainly, Jesus is the most perfect and complete fulfillment of this prophesy.
Ephesians 3:2-3a; 5-6: In this passage, the author, speaking in Paul’s voice, reminds the reader that his role to preach the Christian message to both Jews and Gentiles was given to him by God, himself. Thus, the author reassures disciples of both the legitimacy and the breadth of his target followers; Jews and Gentiles; united in the new Christian faith. The author proclaims as a “mystery”, the revelation that salvation was intended for all of God’s people and not just the Jewish nation. It took Divine Revelation for people to believe in God’s boundless mercy and magnanimous intentions for salvation of the whole world! Lastly, the author marvels that the plan of universal salvation of all was hidden until this generation, via the Divine revelation by the Holy Spirit to the holy Apostles and prophets, by way of revelation and written and spoken words of Scripture.
Matt 2:1-12: With the first three readings reminding us of the prophecies of a coming exceptional and/or messianic King with world-wide authority and power, we read, today, the story of the Epiphany. The mystery of a world-wide ruler with a mission of peace, unity and salvation for all is solved. However, mystery and awe continue to surround us. The ancient study of astrology amazingly reveals and foretells the birth of a newborn King of the Jews. The brightness of the star seems to indicate that this King will be a King above other kings, who will even be worshiped, adored and paid tribute to, by them. Thus, we have the riveting story we ponder, today. The chief priests and scribes confirm that prophecy foretells a powerful ruler of Israel’s coming from Bethlehem. The precision and accuracy of these prophecies and interpretations of the configurations of the stars are astounding.
Ponder the harmony!
Deacon Matt
