epiphany – Writing to Pray

Psalm 72
Matthew 2:1-12

I was surprised at the Merriam-Webster Dictionary’s definition of Epiphany. The first point is a reference to today’s holy day and the second points to, “A manifestation of the divine.” The third listing reads,

a usually sudden manifestation or perception of the essential nature or meaning of something,
an intuitive grasp of reality through something (such as an event) usually simple and striking,
an illuminating discovery, realization, or disclosure: a revealing scene or moment.

Various commentaries highlight different aspects of the Magi, but all tend to debunk the notion of three highly-respected and wise kings. Taken together, it seems once upon a time, Magi were respected king-priests, but over time their reputation dipped (11) for various reasons. At the time of Jesus’ birth they were known as astrologers and dream interpreters: as such, they would have noticed a change in the night sky.

Barclay clearly explains, given knowledge of the culture and belief systems of the day throughout the land, the star’s significance would be obvious to the Magi (8). Writings found from the time period make it clear the general expectation in the region was that Israel would be imminently restored through a new Davidic king. Such a king would establish peace and justice throughout the world. They travelled a long time from far away, probably in some danger to behold this king.

While the Magi were given an understanding of the significance of the appearance of a new star, it was ignited by their professional knowledge. Epiphanies may seem spontaneous and unexpected, however, such ah-ah moments spring from what we know already through perseverance and fortitude.

Secular parlance also uses the word freely and we do indeed have moments of sudden clarity in which we interpret everyday events and circumstances in a new way. Some would say these understandings come from our ‘wise minds.’ Nine times out of ten, if I’ve quieted the jumble in my head, reaching a perception fancy and profound enough to call wisdom, it’s not mine. I have no ‘wise mind,’ but the same mind all the time. If I follow the Light which is the Lord, if I pay attention to His presence before and around me, however, I may come to a new insight.

In other words, if the third Merriam-Webster Dictionary definition takes place, the second has already occurred. Did I miss it?

Journal Questions:

What am I an expert of? How does its attending knowledge help me seek and understand the presence of the Lord here and now?
How would I evaluate my own wisdom? To what or whom do I attribute it to?