Orleans United Methodist Church - Epiphany

LECTIONARY FOR EPIPHANY

FRIDAY, JANUARY 6, 2012

"Epiphany" is a Greek term that means "manifestation" or "revelation". It refers particularly to the way Jesus was made known to all, especially to the Gentiles.

The Epiphany reveals the identity of Jesus by exploring the question: "Who is this who has been born in a stable and is on his way to the cross?" In part, the answer lies hidden in the gifts the magi presented: This is the King of kings. (Monarchs owned most of the gold in the ancient world.) This is God with us. (Incense was burned in many religions to signify the presence of the deity.) This is the one who suffers and dies. (Myrrh was both administered as a pain killer and used in embalming.)

The place of origin of the magi was also crucial to the identity of Jesus. Luke's story of the nativity establishes that Jesus is made known to the Jews (in the persons of the shepherds and of Simeon and Anna in Luke 2). Matthew extends the manifestation to Gentiles from the East. Therefore, Christ is the One who has come for the salvation of all peoples.

Isaiah 60: 1-6: The nations will come to worship the light and the glory of the Lord in Israel. Isaiah reveals that everyone will come bearing gifts of gold and silver and frankincense. Even kings will attend to the brightness that is Israel.

Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14: the psalmist prays for Israel's king to reflect the qualities of God's own rule. The tribute brought by foreign kings has been heard by the church as suggestive of the visit of the magi.

Ephesians 3:1-12: The grace of Christ Jesus is not for Jews only; it is also for Gentiles - perhaps even magi from afar. Paul refers to the "mystery" made known by "revelation" - even as the magi had revealed to them the mystery of the King of the Jews through a star.

Matthew 2:1-12: The magi were given a sign. They looked, they found, and they worshipped. Overwhelmed with joy, they offered the King what they had. God's people today are given a sign. We also look, find, worship and offer our gifts.

OUMC

73 Main Street

PO Box 1565

Orleans, MA 02653

Ph: 508-255-0622

E-mail:

oumc2@verizon.net

Pastor: