By Msgr. William Carr
Isaiah 60:1-6; Ephesians 3:2-6; Matthew 2:1-12
Among Germans and Latins, Epiphany celebrated primarily the coming of the “three kings” or the Magi. In the ancient Church, Epiphany was the second greatest feast in the Church Year (after Easter!)
It celebrated the glorious manifestation of God-in-the-flesh especially in three mysteries: The Magi, The baptism of Jesus, and the wedding feast of Cana. Epiphany is actually older than Christmas as a festival.
Nowadays, Epiphany celebrates the universality of God’s love. The message of the Gospel is for all peoples of all times and all places. It is intended for Gentiles as well as Jews.
Each of the texts of Mass refers to the inclusion of Gentiles (non-Jews) in salvation: “You have revealed your glory to the nations” (Opening Prayer) “Nations shall walk by your light.” (First Reading) “Lord every nation on earth will adore you.” (Responsorial Psalm) “In Christ Jesus, the Gentiles are now co-heirs with the Jews…” (Second Reading)
The Magi or Wise Men were Gentiles. The irony is that they came from afar to honor the King of kings, while those who were near were either indifferent or hostile. The bible does not tell us how many Magi there were; it merely says that there were three gifts. The gifts are symbolic: gold for nobility; frankincense for divinity; and myrrh (an embalming spice) prophetic of the Lord’s saving death.
The star has many possible explanations. It may be a literary device. Perhaps it was a celestial phenomenon such as Halley’s Comet or a conjunction of planets. The message is clear: The star leads us to the Light of the World, the One who came to save all peoples of every nation. Wise men follow in faith!