Epiphany // Matthew 2:10-11

Today is the Epiphany, the day we commemorate the visit of the Magi (or Wise Men) to the baby Jesus. We see earlier references to the Magi in the Book of Daniel when King Nebuchadnezzar made Daniel one of the chiefs of the Magi (Daniel 2:48). I think based on Daniel’s courage and clarity in his ongoing commitment to God that he taught those under his charge about the promised coming of the Messiah. Even though Daniel preceded Jesus by more than 500 years, I think it’s likely the force of his faith influenced the Magi for centuries so that when they saw the star, they knew the prophecies were becoming news and they did not want to miss it. So, the Magi set out with their gifts fit for a ruler, priest, and martyr in order to honor the newborn king. I think there are so many great angles to consider here, but the one that strikes me most is how Daniel’s passion kept the prophecies stoked for half-a-millennia! Is the force of faith you feel inspiring people to keep their eyes, ears, and hearts open for God? I pray it is, because the awareness of God’s presence with us is an epiphany indeed, and one to celebrate this Epiphany Day!