Today is the “Feast of Epiphany,” the day when many Christians remember the visit of the three wise men. (Though honestly, I have never been in a church that has celebrated this feast or thought about its significance).
But reading this story again, I think of the words of Simon who talked to Mary and Joseph on the day they brought Jesus to the temple to be circumcised.
Indeed, this child is destined to cause the fall and rise of many in Israel and to be a sign that will be opposed and a sword will pierce your own soul—that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed. (Luke 2:34-35)
“That the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”
The thoughts of the chief priests certainly were. You would think they had heard the rumors that the Messiah was born. (Matthew 2:3)
And yet it doesn’t seem to have occurred to them to seek him out. How that could be is beyond me.
King Herod, of course, wanted to kill this threat to the throne.
And the wise men came to worship him.
Even today, Jesus reveals the thoughts of people.
Most people feel unthreatened by thoughts of baby Jesus in a manger.
But when it comes to a Jesus who claims to be their king, that’s where their hearts are revealed.
Many dismiss the thought out of hand.
Others become hostile.
And others bow before him.
What response does Jesus spark in your heart?
Moment to Moment (Bible blog) 