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January 14, 2023Matthew’s Gospel today is the scriptural basis for the feast of the Epiphany. It commemorates the finding and adoration of the infant Jesus by the wise men (the Magi). The Magi were not kings but more likely scholars who engaged in astrology and predictions of the future. They were also Gentiles. Matthew is beginning to develop the theme that the Christ child has arrived for all nations, not just the Israelites. Christ is heralded and given homage by the Magi as the king for all. Christ is shown for all the world. It is a joyous occasion for which the Magi offered precious gifts to the newborn king. Yet the undertone of future trouble is also present as Herod attempts to glean from the Magi the whereabouts of the child Jesus. Herod fears that Jesus poses a potential threat to Roman rule. Both the Magi and the Holy Family flee from Bethlehem. We later learn that Herod decreed the massacre of all infant boys in Bethlehem under the age of two. Matthew is thus revealing that from the very start of Jesus’ life, His mission on earth will not be well received. Is there a message here for us to ponder today? Yes, even when our lives begin to encounter dark times of sorrow and suffering, good will eventually outweigh evil and darkness. As this Gospel passage portends, this Christ child, who is showered with princely gifts by the Magi, will eventually be crucified and buried. But that is not the end; his resurrection is the “rest of the story.” And that is truly the Good News for each of us. So let us celebrate the “Epiphany of the Lord” with thanksgiving. Christ remains the source of hope, joy and salvation for the world and for each of us.Reflection by parishioner, Dale Gerber