The Visit of the Magi

Today is the feast of Epiphany - the day that marks the visit of the magi to the baby Jesus.  As we celebrate this season of Epiphany (Epiphany means unveiling) it is interesting that the first epiphany about this Jesus is of his being sent to the earth for all peoples.  That, of course, is the traditional Christian understanding about the meaning of this strange visit by wise men from afar.  The Jews had understood the messiah to be someone who would save them, whereas the Christians understand the messiah as one who will offer salvation to the whole earth.
In this age when we struggle with the implications of multi-multiculturalism and multi-faith communities  one is tempted to see this kind of message as triumphalist.  That Christians would declare this Jesus - King of Kings and Lord of Lords might seem somewhat insensitive.  Let me suggest, however, that the triumph being heralded is not so much about worldly kingdoms as it is about the spiritual victory over evil. The reign being looked for is one that rights injustice, cares for the poor, brings an end to sickness and pain and ends the violence that has plagued human history.
Do I really understand these things? I don't even pretend to. I do long for the day when things are put right in this world.  I treasure in my heart the proclamation that this Jesus is messiah and that he can and will do these things for the whole world.  May it be so.  Come Lord Jesus.