The Epiphany of the Lord – Cycle A
Reflecting on Matthew 2: 1-12
We have finally arrived at my favorite feast of the year. I find myself speeding through Advent and the first two weeks of Christmas so that we can finally remember those courageous (and curious) Magi, that blazing STAR, vicious Herod, and the brave Mother and Father who, like millions of migrants today, risked their lives in order to shepherd their precious Child to safety.
I love that the Magi (probably Persian astrologers) knew NOTHING of Judaism, but left their entire lives behind to “traverse afar” to seek a King whose birth must surely be heralded by that bright, bright STAR.
I love that they were so unaware of the reputation of the King of Judea that they actually asked Herod, upon being summoned by him, where they could find this “newborn King of the Jews!” How could they not have heard that he, driven by ruthless paranoia, killed his beloved wife Mariamne and two of their sons? THIS is who they’re asking about a newborn King?
I love that the STAR they had seen at its rising moved just ahead of them, and then stopped over “the place where the child was.” I had that experience once, driving down a dark highway in the fog at 10 pm. Out of nowhere, a large truck moved ahead of me, put on its brights, and stayed just in front of me until I was close to home.
I love that they brought the very gifts prophesied by Isaiah: gold (kingship), frankincense (incense used in priestly anointings), and myrrh ( a prefigure of his death).
Mostly, I love that we are called to seek him, too. A very wise thing to do.
What touches you the most about this feast?
Kathy McGovern ©2026