Today we celebrate the Magi, who coming from Persia, wanted to kneel before the One, True Son of God.
In the City of Bethlehem at the Church of the Nativity—the most visited Christian shrine—the current church building believed to be built over the site of the birthplace of Jesus,
originally had a mosaic on the outside wall depicting the three Magi in their traditional Persian garb.
In 614 when Persians invaded Bethlehem and destroyed the City, they left the Church of the Nativity standing because they recognized the traditional dress of the Magi. These forerunners of those who came to acknowledge the Son of God as the King of kings and Lord of All, should be a sign (Epiphany) for us today who have come to believe that Jesus Christ is the Word of God made flesh and the Savior of the World—all of the world—who dwelt among us and should see this day as a reminder of the total inclusivity of the Gospel message of God. And we should be open to inviting all to come to worship the One, True God made man, no matter their culture or origin. In this weekend’s second reading from Ephesians (3:2-3a, 5-6) we hear that our belief in the Gospel message that we are heirs to the Kingdom of God and as His heirs we are also copartners in spreading His Gospel message of Love and peace to all who are open to receiving Him. We pray that we will not withhold this Godly message from anyone who seeks it with an open and sincere heart. That too will be another amazing Epiphany (sign) to others.