In January, when the days of Christmas are complete, Christians traditionally observe a celebration called “Epiphany.” Derived from the Greek word meaning “shine upon,” Epiphany is rooted in the story of the Magi — the wise star-watchers from the east described in Matthew 2:1-12. Although Matthew’s Gospel remains steadfastly faithful to his Jewish tradition and scriptures, it is also he who tells of these outsiders summoned by God to greet and honor the new King of the Jews. In Christ, he is telling us, God turns outsiders into insiders. This is good news, especially if you’re an outsider!
It’s worth noticing that the Magi do not stumble into all this. God summons them, invites them — and not in the customary language of Matthew’s religious establishment. God invites the Magi in language they can understand (in their case, a star in the heavens!).
By the time Matthew wrote this story down, Christians were carrying the Gospel all over the Mediterranean, and Gentile believers were flooding into the household of faith. For Matthew, the Magi embody the emerging Christian mission beyond the borders of Jesus’ own heritage. Jesus is not just the light of his own people, or of any select group, but shines farther than we can imagine.
We all know many whom God is calling to meet and honor Jesus. Many are on a journey to find him, and some don’t even know the name of what they seek. They are hungry for God. Like the star that led the Magi, it’s your job and mine to draw them to the place where Christ is found. As Jesus says, “let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16)
Today, there are many people who, in Paul’s words, are “separate from Christ…foreigners to the covenants of the promise, without hope and without God in the world.” (Ephesians 2:12) At the beginning of this new year, let us remember that the light of Christ does not shine on us for mere personal illumination. Instead, the Light of the World shines from us onto others. As we follow him and truly pattern our lives by his Word, others will see how his light rests on us and is reflected by us. Then we can tell them where that light comes from.
How can we reflect that light in the world? When we live in solidarity with those who suffer and have lost much — the light shines. When we take responsibility for helping and respond with compassion — the light shines. When we get our own house in order, reconciling differences before God, with our families or with our neighbor — the light shines. When we trust God’s unshakable ability to act in persuasive love to bring order out of chaos, healing out of injury, and hope out of despair — the light shines. When we recognize that life is a gift to be lived in God’s grace and mercy — the light shines.
The prophet Isaiah says to God’s people: “Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you.” (60:1) In other words: “God’s light is here. Wake up, and be on with the business of living in the light and sharing it.” Read through the many opportunities for action and ministry in this month’s newsletter, find your place to shine — and then shine on!
Grace and Peace,