Epiphany, the 12th day of Christmas
I thought about posting another interesting artist singing another entertaining twist on the twelve days of Christmas today, but then I saw what a friend wrote on facebook last night about the 12th day of Christmas and thought that you might prefer this instead.
I hope that you enjoy this and have a great Epiphany Sunday!
John Michael Talbot
“Matthew 2:1-12. Epiphany ends the 12 Days of Christmas, or Christmastide. Epiphany means, " manifestation." It is the Epiphany, or Manifestation of the Christ. This manifestation is not only for the Jews, but for all humanity.
The Magi are the wise religious leaders and representative from the East. They represent that Jesus confirms, and completes all the religions of the world. He confirms because His manifestation is announced through the stars they watched for divine revelation, but is completed when they see, not a conquering hero, but a tiny Baby in a poor shepherd's stable. The Greatness of God is manifested in the humility of a human baby. The Paradox of paradoxes begins, and will reach completion in the Cross and Resurrection.
The Magi do not find this Manifestation in a divine vacuum, but in the midst of the Holy Family. Jesus is the Son of God, and the Son of Mary, both human and divine. He comes from the Divine Communion of the heavenly Trinity into a Holy an earthly Family with His Mother Mary, and Joseph His stepfather. He will re-establish the human family in a divine fellowship of forgiveness and love that no human empire, king, or government can accomplish.
Though there are different takes on this, they bring gifts that represent that Jesus is Priest, Prophet, and King. Gold is for a king. Frankincense is for a priestly offering. Myrrh is for the suffering of the prophet and servant. Gold is for His divinity, Frankincense is for His intercession between divinity and humanity, and Myrrh is for His sacrifice as suffering servant, sacrifice, and prophet.
We are called to share in this sacred ministry, each according to our call as laity or clergy. We are to be the Body of Christ as a Church and as individuals. Jesus is such by merit and righteousness, and we share in that divine calling by mercy, grace, and forgiveness. But we share in this calling none the less.
Are we letting Jesus "manifest" in our family, church, and secular world through our personal conversion to Christ today?”
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