Savior of All Peoples and Nations
2019년 1월 6일We all know the story of the three kings, or more correctly, Magi. These were astrologers of the Zoroastrian religion in what was Persia, now present day Iran. The gospel of Matthew tells about these star gazers following a special star that led them to seek the newborn king of the Jews. They reasonably, yet it turns out tragically, assumed King Herod had a new son so they went to his palace in Jerusalem. Their arrival greatly upset Herod and the whole city because the birth of the Messiah would certainly challenge the political and religious powers. Herod, for his part, after inquiring of the Jewish scribes about where the Messiah was to be born, sent the Magi to Bethlehem instructing them to return so he too could pay homage to the newborn king.
This story is rich in symbolism. The star indicates that the birth of Jesus is a cosmic event. The Magi show the baby is not just king of the Jews but savior of all nations and peoples. Even Herod represents those whose political ambitions blind them to the goodness of God present in our world, who view Jesus as a threat. You’ll notice in the gospel the Magi enter a house where they found Mary and the baby. No mention of Joseph or a manger. Don’t be fooled by our overcrowded Nativity scenes! The shepherds and angels are in Luke’s gospel; the star and Magi are in Matthew’s.
The gifts the Magi offer: gold, frankincense and myrrh symbolize the baby is a king, a god, and a human. It is interesting that these supposedly pagan astrologers, following superstitious practices, not only found Jesus but they also realized who he was. Meanwhile Herod and many of the religious leaders of the so-called “right” religion completely missed the meaning of Jesus’ birth. This gospel story fills us with wonder even as it gives us a warning.
We believe Catholicism is the one true Church founded by Jesus Christ. But we must never let our position in society, our political power, or our material possessions blind us to who Jesus is and where we can seek and find him today. Let our acts of service, charity, and solidarity with the poor be the gifts we offer to show the world we know who Jesus is.