Commentary: In today’s first reading Isaiah prophesies about a time of glory and splendor for Israel. This great time is represented by the symbol of light, when “the Lord shines.” This light that will come to the Israelites is intended not just for them but for all people, for “nations shall walk by your light.” Other nations (i.e. the Gentiles), in fact, will come with gifts to Israel in order to worship the Lord. These gifts include “gold and frankincense.” Thus, the fact that the magi bring gifts of “gold and frankincense” (as told in the Gospel reading) shows that the fulfillment of this prophesy comes with the birth of Jesus. He is the “light of the world” (see John 8:12) and people from all nations (represented first by the magi) come to give Him gifts and worship Him.
Commentary: The Apostle Paul here speaks of God’s plan of salvation for humanity that has been revealed in Jesus Christ. In fact, the word “epiphany,” which is today’s feast, means appearance or revelation. In referring to “the mystery” (a common word used by Paul) he is speaking of God’s plan of salvation that had been hidden but is now revealed and made manifest in the person of Christ. This plan of salvation, surprisingly for the Jews, includes the Gentiles (non-Jews). Not only are the Gentiles included but they have equal status in the New Covenant. Through the gospel of Jesus Christ, they are, in fact, “coheirs, members, and copartners.” This welcoming of the Gentiles was foretold in today’s first reading and made evident in the gospel through the coming of the magi (who were Gentiles) to worship Jesus and recognize Him as the Messiah.
Commentary: Not much information is given in Scripture about “the magi from the east.” Traditionally it has been held that there were three wise men (due to the three gifts), having the names Melchior, Caspar, and Balthazar. It is most likely that they came from Persia, an empire to the east. Furthermore, the term “magi” could refer to priests, sages, or even astrologers. This last option seems plausible due to their interest in a special star. This “star” could be explained by a natural phenomenon such as a comet, the alignment of planets, or a nova (all of which were recorded near the time of Jesus’ birth). However, it also could be supernatural such as, for example, an angel appearing as a bright star to guide the magi. Regardless, it is clear that God used the “star” to make evident the greatness of the event of Jesus’ birth. It was common in the ancient world to view a special star as a signal of the birth of a king, so it makes sense that the magi were looking for the “king of the Jews.” The news of Jesus’ birth troubled Herod the Great because he was the king of the Jews, appointed as such by Rome. Herod was a power hungry ruler who had no problem axing anyone who threatened his rule. The news from the magi came as a threat to his power and thus he deceptively sent them to find Jesus’ location in order to kill him. Yet, the magi went to worship him. The fact that Gentiles (i.e. non-Jews) came to worship the Messiah is evidence that Jesus came for all of humanity. The expensive gifts of gold, frankincense (a perfumed incense used in worship), and myrrh (an anointing oil used as a burial ointment) were only fit for a king. They indicate that Jesus is not just the king of the Jews but the king of all humanity. He is Emmanuel (“God with us”). The magi’s return “by another way” symbolically represents that whenever we encounter Jesus, we will never return the same.
Taking it Home:
What encounters with Jesus have you had during this Christmas season? Write down any times you have experienced God lately in a special way. How has it changed you?
The magi came to Jesus, worshipped Him, and gave Him gifts. As followers of Jesus, we can worship Him through giving of our time, talent, and treasure. Consider ways in this new year of 2016 that you can better give of yourself in one of these areas in order to worship Jesus.