Opening Prayer:
Creator of all, we thank you for the opportunity to gather in study. Open our minds and hearts. By the power of the Holy Spirit, unite us in faith, hope, and love. Help us to be faithful to the gospel and to walk humbly with you. Grant us your peace as we grow in wisdom and understanding. We pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Matthew 2:1-12 What form does asking “where” about Jesus take today?
In the story of the Epiphany (meaning “manifestation” or “appearance,” and referring specifically to God’s self-revelation in Christ), Matthew gives Jesus’ life a geographical and historical setting. He came into the real world, where Herod was King. In this world, the magi came from the East and asked, “Where was the King born?”—a key question for Matthew. The magi were following the star and tradition believes that they did not really need to ask for guidance. The magi were Persian or Babylonian priests, experts in astrology and dream interpretation. They studied the stars and believed that the appearance of a new star meant the birth of a king. They were Pagans (non-Jews) who had followed the bright light of that star on the long journey across the dessert. The religious leaders helped the magi by interpreting the Scriptures for them. They pointed out that Scripture (Micah 5:2 and 2 Samuel 5:2) said the Messiah would be born of David’s line, in Bethlehem of Judea, the city of David. The magi came, asking “where?” in a sense of wonder and excitement. Herod asked “where?” with fear and murder in his heart.
Ephesians 3:1-12 How does this message in Ephesians hold both judgment and hope for this situation we find ourselves in—an “us against them mentality”?
God had a long-time secret that now had been made known—the Gentiles are also heirs to the promise! One of the basic human sins is contempt for persons different from ourselves. The great power in the Christian message is this: We are all included in God’s love. God loves those sinners whom we judge inferior, just as much as ourselves, who sin by discriminating against others. Paul, who calls himself among the “least,” delivers this important message. In Christ, there is a free approach to God, no matter where we find ourselves. We cannot draw closer to God without drawing closer to one another. This is true spatially, but also in terms of attitude and openness to those who are different. Just as in Isaiah’s vision all people are drawn to God’s altar, so does Ephesians proclaim that “through the Gospel [groups formerly divided are now] members together of one body, and sharers together in the promise in Jesus.”
Closing Prayer
Shepherd of Israel,
may Jesus, Emmanuel and son of Mary,
be more than just a dream in our hearts.
With the apostles, prophets, and saints,
save us, restore us,
and lead us in the way of grace and peace,
that we may bear your promise into the world. Amen.