The Daily Lectionary
with Commentary
Saturday, January 6, 2024
Epiphany of the Lord
A Light in the Darkness:
Celebrating the Epiphany of the Lord
Isaiah 60:1-6; Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14;
with Commentary
Saturday, January 6, 2024
Epiphany of the Lord
A Light in the Darkness:
Celebrating the Epiphany of the Lord
Isaiah 60:1-6; Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14;
Ephesians 3:1-12; Matthew 2:1-12
(Revised Common Lectionary Year B)
(Epiphany 1)
Introduction
(Revised Common Lectionary Year B)
(Epiphany 1)
Introduction
In the heart of the season of Epiphany, we delve into a tapestry of scriptures that illuminate the profound mystery and joy of Christ's manifestation. Isaiah 60:1-6 calls us to arise and shine, for the light of the Lord has come, foretelling the glory of a newborn king attracting nations to its brightness. Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14 echoes this theme, praying for a righteous and just king, under whose reign the afflicted find rescue and the needy are heard. The passage from Ephesians 3:1-12 unveils the mystery hidden for ages: the Gentiles are co-heirs in Christ, a revelation that reshapes our understanding of God's inclusive plan. Finally, Matthew 2:1-12 narrates the journey of the Magi, guided by a star to worship the infant Jesus, symbolizing the light of Christ reaching all corners of the earth. Together, these passages form a mosaic that celebrates the Epiphany of the Lord, revealing God's love and light to all nations and peoples.
Hope is Here
On this joyous Epiphany of our Lord, let us embrace the resounding message of hope that radiates from the manger in Bethlehem to our hearts today. As the star led the Magi to discover Jesus, so too are we guided to the revelation of true hope in Him. This holy day reminds us that, in Christ, hope is not a fleeting dream but a steadfast presence in our lives, shining through our darkest moments and guiding us toward peace and salvation. Let us carry this hope forward, allowing it to light our way and inspire us to spread its warmth and promise to a world in need, today and always, that Hope is Here, and His name is Jesus.
Opening Prayer
O Gracious God, as we celebrate the Epiphany of our Lord Jesus Christ, we are reminded of the journey of the Magi, who followed the guiding star to worship the newborn King. In their journey, may we find inspiration to seek Your truth in our own lives.
Lord, illuminate our paths with Your divine light, as You did for the wise men. Help us to recognize Your presence in the people and experiences we encounter. Give us the wisdom to discern Your guidance and the strength to follow it, even when the path seems challenging or uncertain.
As the Magi brought gifts to Jesus, let us offer our own gifts of love, kindness, and service to others. May our actions reflect Your love and grace to the world. Help us to remember the true spirit of this holy season, embracing humility, compassion, and the joy of giving.
Lord, in the glow of Your divine Epiphany, may our hearts be open to the fullness of Your love and the endless possibilities of Your grace. Guide us to live in a way that honors You and brings light to those around us.
We ask this in the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.
In the heart of the prophetic book of Isaiah, chapter 60 verses 1-6 emerge as a beacon of hope and revelation, particularly resonant on the Feast of the Epiphany of the Lord. This passage, rich in imagery and symbolism, speaks to the theme of divine light breaking into the darkness of the world. It is an invitation to witness the glory of the Lord, a theme that aligns perfectly with the Epiphany celebration, where the manifestation of Christ to the Gentiles, as represented by the Magi, is commemorated.60 1 “Arise, shine, for your light has come,
and the glory of the LORD rises upon you.
2 See, darkness covers the earth
and thick darkness is over the peoples,
but the LORD rises upon you
and his glory appears over you.
3 Nations will come to your light,
and kings to the brightness of your dawn.
4 “Lift up your eyes and look about you:
All assemble and come to you;
our sons come from afar,
and your daughters are carried on the hip.
5 Then you will look and be radiant,
your heart will throb and swell with joy;
he wealth on the seas will be brought to you,
to you the riches of the nations will come.
6 Herds of camels will cover your land,
young camels of Midian and Ephah.
And all from Sheba will come,
bearing gold and incense
and proclaiming the praise of the LORD.
Commentary
In this passage, Isaiah uses vivid imagery to convey a transformative event where the divine light dispels the prevailing darkness. The opening verse, "Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord rises upon you," serves as a powerful call to action and awakening. It is a prophetic announcement of a new era marked by the presence of God's glory.
The darkness that covers the earth can be seen as a metaphor for spiritual ignorance or despair that grips humanity. Against this backdrop, the emergence of God's light symbolizes hope, guidance, and revelation. The light that Isaiah speaks of is more than physical brightness; it is a representation of divine presence, wisdom, and grace.
Verses 3 to 6 depict the impact of this divine light. Nations and kings are drawn to this brightness, symbolizing the universal reach of God's revelation. The imagery of sons and daughters gathering, the wealth of nations being brought, and the arrival of caravans of camels laden with gifts, including gold and incense, is reminiscent of the Magi's journey to Bethlehem, as described in the Gospel of Matthew. This connection makes the passage particularly relevant for the Epiphany celebration.
The gifts of gold and incense are significant. Gold, a symbol of kingship, aligns with the recognition of Christ as King, while incense, used in worship, signifies divine presence and the worship due to God. The mention of these gifts in Isaiah ties the Old Testament prophecy to the New Testament fulfillment in Christ.
Finally, the transformative effect of this divine encounter is expressed in verse 5: "Then you will look and be radiant, your heart will throb and swell with joy." This verse captures the essence of the Epiphany: the joyous realization of God's presence in the world through Christ, a light for all nations and a source of eternal hope and joy.
A Psalm and A Prayer
Responsive Readings from the Psalms and Prayers
for Public Worship and Private Devotions
Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14
Illuminating Justice: A Celebration of Epiphany
Responsive Readings from the Psalms and Prayers
for Public Worship and Private Devotions
Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14
Illuminating Justice: A Celebration of Epiphany
As we gather to celebrate the Epiphany of the Lord, we turn our hearts and minds to Psalm 72, a passage that beautifully encapsulates the essence of divine justice, mercy, and righteousness. In this Psalm, attributed to Solomon, we are invited to reflect on the ideal qualities of a king, embodying the very nature of God's own leadership. As we read verses 1-7 and 10-14, let us contemplate how these words resonate with the revelation of Christ, the King who comes not only to rule but to serve, bringing justice and peace to all nations.1 Endow the king with your justice, O God, *
The royal son with your righteousness.
2 May he judge your people in righteousness, *
Your afflicted ones with justice.
3 May the mountains bring prosperity to the people, *
The hills the fruit of righteousness.
4 May he defend the afflicted among the people
and save the children of the needy; *
May he crush the oppressor.
5 May he endure as long as the sun, *
As long as the moon, through all generations.
6 May he be like rain falling on a mown field, *
Like showers watering the earth.
7 In his days may the righteous flourish *
And prosperity abound till the moon is no more.
10 May the kings of Tarshish and of distant shores
bring tribute to him. *
May the kings of Sheba and Seba
present him gifts.
11 May all kings bow down to him *
And all nations serve him.
12 For he will deliver the needy who cry out, *
The afflicted who have no one to help.
13 He will take pity on the weak and the needy *
And save the needy from death.
14 He will rescue them from oppression and violence, *
For precious is their blood in his sight.
Gracious and Almighty God, on this blessed Epiphany, we come before You with hearts full of awe and gratitude. As we delve into the depths of Psalm 72, we ask for Your divine guidance to understand the profound messages of justice, mercy, and righteousness. May these verses open our eyes to see Your hand at work in the world, guiding leaders and nations towards Your divine principles.
Lord, as we reflect on the promises of this Psalm—the promise of a ruler who judges Your people with righteousness and the afflicted with justice—we pray for our leaders. Instill in them the wisdom and compassion exemplified by Your Son, Jesus Christ, whose epiphany we celebrate today. May they, like the king in Psalm 72, endeavor to defend the cause of the poor, deliver the needy, and crush the oppressor.
We are reminded today of the gifts of the Magi, symbolizing Christ's kingship, priesthood, and sacrifice. In the same spirit, may our gifts to this world be ones of love, service, and a relentless pursuit of justice. Help us, O God, to embody the qualities of the king in this Psalm—to be instruments of Your peace, agents of Your justice, and beacons of Your light in this world.
As we read about the kings of Tarshish and of distant shores bringing tribute, the kings of Sheba and Seba offering gifts, and all kings bowing down to Him, let our own lives reflect such homage to Christ our King. May our actions, words, and thoughts honor Him who is just and righteous, our eternal ruler.
Bless us, O Lord, with the rainfall of righteousness and the flourishing of peace, as promised in this Psalm. May the righteous flourish during the time of Christ our King and let peace abound until the moon is no more.
Be with us today and every day in Jesus Christ, Who taught us to pray:
“Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever and ever. Amen.”
The passage from Ephesians 3:1-12, written by Apostle Paul, is a profound reflection on the mystery of Christ and the unification of Jews and Gentiles in God's plan. This section highlights God's eternal purpose revealed through Jesus Christ, emphasizing the inclusive and transformative nature of the Gospel. As we explore these verses, we are invited to delve into the depths of God's wisdom and grace, understanding how the once hidden mystery of salvation has now been made known to all through Christ.3 1 For this reason I, Paul, the prisoner of Christ Jesus for the sake of you Gentiles—
2 Surely you have heard about the administration of God’s grace that was given to me for you, 3 that is, the mystery made known to me by revelation, as I have already written briefly. 4 In reading this, then, you will be able to understand my insight into the mystery of Christ, 5 which was not made known to people in other generations as it has now been revealed by the Spirit to God’s holy apostles and prophets. 6 This mystery is that through the gospel the Gentiles are heirs together with Israel, members together of one body, and sharers together in the promise in Christ Jesus.
7 I became a servant of this gospel by the gift of God’s grace given me through the working of his power. 8 Although I am less than the least of all the Lord’s people, this grace was given me: to preach to the Gentiles the boundless riches of Christ, 9 and to make plain to everyone the administration of this mystery, which for ages past was kept hidden in God, who created all things. 10 His intent was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms, 11 according to his eternal purpose that he accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord. 12 In him and through faith in him we may approach God with freedom and confidence.
Commentary
Ephesians 3:1-12 offers a rich tapestry of theological insights, where Paul speaks of his role as a steward of God’s grace. He begins by referencing his own circumstances, a subtle yet powerful reminder of his commitment to the Gospel despite being in prison.
In verses 2-3, Paul speaks of the administration of God's grace that was given to him for the Ephesians, emphasizing that the mystery of Christ was revealed to him by revelation. This mystery, as he further explains in verses 4-6, is that through the Gospel, Gentiles are co-heirs, members of the same body, and sharers in the promise in Christ Jesus. This revelation signifies a radical shift from the Jewish tradition, highlighting the universal scope of God's salvation plan.
Paul’s role as a preacher to the Gentiles (v. 7-8) underlines the theme of God’s inclusive grace. He considers himself the least of all God’s people, an expression of humility and recognition of the grace that transformed him from a persecutor of Christians to an apostle. His mission is to illuminate the boundless riches of Christ and make plain the administration of this mystery.
Verses 9-10 reveal the manifold wisdom of God being made known through the church to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms. This points to the cosmic dimension of God’s plan, where the church plays a crucial role in displaying God’s wisdom and sovereignty.
Finally, verses 11-12 encapsulate the essence of the Christian hope and faith. Through Jesus Christ and faith in Him, we have boldness and confident access to God. This access is not limited by ethnicity, status, or past, but is a gift of grace to all who believe.
In conclusion, Ephesians 3:1-12 serves as a powerful reminder of the inclusive and mysterious nature of the Gospel. It celebrates the revelation of God's plan in Christ, a plan that transcends human boundaries and unites all in the promise of salvation. As we reflect on these verses during the Epiphany season, we are reminded of the light of Christ that shines for all nations and the call to be bearers of this transformative message.
Matthew 2:1-12
Guided by the Star: The Journey of the Magi
Guided by the Star: The Journey of the Magi
In Matthew 2:1-12, we witness a profound event in Christian tradition: the Epiphany of the Lord. This passage narrates the journey of the Magi, or Wise Men, as they follow a celestial sign—a star—leading them to the birthplace of Jesus Christ. This story is not just a tale of a physical journey, but a spiritual odyssey that symbolizes the recognition of Jesus as the Messiah by the Gentiles. This account, rich in symbolism and prophetic fulfillment, invites us to contemplate the universal call of Christ to all humanity.2 1 After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem 2 and asked, “Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.”
3 When King Herod heard this he was disturbed, and all Jerusalem with him. 4 When he had called together all the people’s chief priests and teachers of the law, he asked them where the Messiah was to be born. 5 “In Bethlehem in Judea,” they replied, “for this is what the prophet has written:
6 “‘But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah,
are by no means least among the rulers of Judah;
for out of you will come a ruler
who will shepherd my people Israel.’”
7 Then Herod called the Magi secretly and found out from them the exact time the star had appeared. 8 He sent them to Bethlehem and said, “Go and search carefully for the child. As soon as you find him, report to me, so that I too may go and worship him.”
9 After they had heard the king, they went on their way, and the star they had seen when it rose went ahead of them until it stopped over the place where the child was. 10 When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. 11 On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. 12 And having been warned in a dream not to go back to Herod, they returned to their country by another route.
Commentary
1. The Significance of the Star (Matthew 2:1-2): The star that guides the Magi is a key symbol in this narrative. It represents divine guidance and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies about a new King. This celestial sign is a beacon for those seeking spiritual truth, leading them to Christ.
2. The Journey of the Magi (Matthew 2:1-10): The Magi's journey is emblematic of the spiritual quest for truth and enlightenment. These Wise Men, likely from a distant land, symbolize the inclusivity of Christ's call, extending beyond Jewish boundaries to the entire world. Their determination and faith in following the star reflect the earnest seeking of God by all nations.
3. Herod’s Deception and Fear (Matthew 2:3-8): King Herod’s troubled reaction and deceitful intentions reveal the threat that the birth of Jesus poses to worldly power and authority. Herod's fear and subsequent actions contrast sharply with the faith and humility of the Magi.
4. The Gifts of the Magi (Matthew 2:11): The gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh, each hold deep symbolic significance. Gold symbolizes Jesus' kingship, frankincense denotes his priestly role, and myrrh, often used in embalming, prefigures his death and resurrection. These gifts acknowledge Jesus' multifaceted mission and identity.
5. The Dream and the Alternate Path (Matthew 2:12): The Magi's decision to return by another route, as warned in a dream, symbolizes the transformative encounter with Christ. Meeting Jesus redirects their path, both physically and spiritually, signaling a new direction in their lives and in the lives of all who recognize Jesus as Lord.
In conclusion, Matthew 2:1-12 is a rich tapestry of prophecy, revelation, and the universal appeal of Jesus' message. The Epiphany story invites us to reflect on our own journey towards spiritual understanding and to recognize the diverse ways in which God calls all people to encounter Christ.
Closing
As we conclude our readings of the Epiphany of our Lord, let us carry the message of hope that this day embodies. The star that once guided the Magi to the Christ Child still shines in our hearts, reminding us that hope is ever-present, even in our darkest moments.
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. May the light of Christ, revealed to the nations, be a beacon in your life, guiding you in paths of righteousness and peace.
As the wise men once journeyed by faith, may your journey too be guided by faith and filled with the hope that Christ brings. May this hope be your strength and your song, a constant reminder that God is with us, Emmanuel.
Now, go forth in the assurance of His love, carrying the light of hope into the world. And may the blessings of God Almighty, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, be upon you and remain with you always. Amen.
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. May the light of Christ, revealed to the nations, be a beacon in your life, guiding you in paths of righteousness and peace.
As the wise men once journeyed by faith, may your journey too be guided by faith and filled with the hope that Christ brings. May this hope be your strength and your song, a constant reminder that God is with us, Emmanuel.
Now, go forth in the assurance of His love, carrying the light of hope into the world. And may the blessings of God Almighty, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, be upon you and remain with you always. Amen.
Now the Work of Christmas Begins
Optional parts of the readings are set off in [square brackets.]
The Bible texts of the Old Testament, Epistle, and Gospel lessons are from The Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. Commentaries are by Kenny Sallee, ThM.
The Daily Lectionary is a three year cyclical lectionary. We are currently in Year B. Beginning with the first Sunday of Advent in 2024, we will be in Year C. The year which ended at Advent 2023 was Year A. These readings complement the Sunday and festival readings: Thursday through Saturday readings help prepare the reader for the Sunday ahead; Monday through Wednesday readings help the reader reflect and digest on what they heard in worship. Revised Common Lectionary Daily Readings, copyright © 2005 Consultation on Common Texts. www.commontexts.org
The Daily Lectionary with Commentary for Saturday, January 6, 2024—Epiphany of the Lord
A Light in the Darkness: Celebrating the Epiphany of the Lord
In the heart of the season of Epiphany, we delve into a tapestry of scriptures that illuminate the profound mystery and joy of Christ's manifestation. Our reading in Isaiah calls us to arise and shine, for the light of the Lord has come, foretelling the glory of a newborn king attracting nations to its brightness. Our Psalm reading echoes this theme, praying for a righteous and just king, under whose reign the afflicted find rescue and the needy are heard. The passage from Ephesians unveils the mystery hidden for ages: the Gentiles are co-heirs in Christ, a revelation that reshapes our understanding of God's inclusive plan. Finally, our reading in Matthew narrates the journey of the Magi, guided by a star to worship the infant Jesus, symbolizing the light of Christ reaching all corners of the earth. Together, these passages form a mosaic that celebrates the Epiphany of the Lord, revealing God's love and light to all nations and peoples.
