FEAST OF EPIPHANY: Mt 2:1-12
I still remember, the impact that this feast had in all of us during my childhood. We called it “The Kings”, and we would go from house to house singing the traditional songs for the occasion, and receiving whatever people would give us. It was a time for rejoicing and sharing. In fact, it was the proclamation of the good news taken to all around us that the Lord Jesus had come not only for us, but for all.
In his letter to the Ephesians, Paul states it very clearly that the mystery of salvation offered to all was unknown in past generations, and this mystery
“means that pagans now share the same inheritance, that they are parts of the same body, and that the same promise has been made to them, in Jesus Christ, through the gospel.” (Ep 3:6).
When we read the Old Testament, we easily get the idea of exclusivism; it is as if the Scriptures promote and aprove a narrow nationalistic ideology, which looks down on all those who do not belong to the chosen people. The prophets tried to break out of that exclusivism and spoke of a universal plan of salvation. Isaiah was bold enough to say that God cares as much of Egypt and Babylon as he cares about Israel.
“On that day there will be an altar to the Lord in the center of the land of Egypt, and a pillar to the Lord at its border. It will be a sign and a witness to the Lord of hosts in the land of Egypt; when they cry to the Lord because of oppressors, he will send them a savior, and will defend and deliver them.” “Blessed be Egypt my people, and Assyria the work of my hands, and Israel my heritage.” (Is 19:19-20, 25).
The feast of Epiphany celebrates this great mystery of salvation: In Jesus Christ, all peoples are called to salvation. And all those who look for the light and search for life, will find the one who brings to all who are ready to accept him.
Like the magi, may we never get tired of looking for the Saviour. In the end we will be guided to him, so that we offer to him the gifts of our lives.
No comments:
Post a Comment