The God Who Confronts the World (Epiphany Year B)
Isaiah 60:1 -6; Psalm 72:1-7,10-14; Ephesians 3:1-12; Matthew 2:1-12) God calls to his people and his world (season of Advent). God comes to his people and world (season of Christmas). God confronts his people and world (Day of Epiphany). Born to a peasant couple in Bethlehem. Attended by animals and shepherds. Now worshiped by Magi. These “wise men” from the East, that is, pagans, seek audience with him led by a star in the East to his birthplace. They bear gifts fit for a king. This is Jesus, the king of the Jews (Mt.2:2)! The lectionary readings also frame Jesus’ birth as a royal divine event. Isaiah styles it the coming of God’s “glory” (God’s presence). That for which Israel had longed for and waited is here! Psalm...