Matthew 2:1-6 English Standard Version
The Visit of the Wise Men
1 Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the east came to Jerusalem, 2 saying, “Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.” 3 When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him; 4 and assembling all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Christ was to be born. 5 They told him, “In Bethlehem of Judea, for so it is written by the prophet:
6 “‘And you, O Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for from you shall come a ruler who will shepherd my people Israel.’”
Most people who read the title for today will not think of this message in the gospel of Matthew. Here is one definition of epiphany found in Google’s primary listing.
Epiphany is the manifestation of Christ to the Gentiles as represented by the Magi (Matthew 2:1–12).
As we approach this Christmas season there is a need for true epiphany, and not what the majority thinks. Epiphany is not merely an awareness, some new thought that is accepted. It matters not what it is if it has nothing to do with Christ.
Epiphany has a thesaurus word, revealed. The world will accept the alternate if it leaves out two key elements of revelation. Source and trust are at the root of revelations. The world is eager and willing to have anything revealed that does not contain Christ or absolute truth.
Let us try to remember that as we enter this season of celebration.