Epiphany Is An ‘Aha’ Moment

Epiphany is manifestation, It is the moment of realisation, revelation, insight; it is the moment when light gets switched on. It is an ‘aha’ moment; where by we say, we had seen an ordinary child (in all its appearances) in the crib; and now I get it, now I understand, now I see clearly. There are two things manifested in during epiphany (Matthew 2:1-12).

Firstly, the Child born in Bethlehem is God. The divinity of Jesus is revealed at epiphany. Theologically epiphany has three moments.

The adoration of Magi: the men from the East had an ‘aha’ moment; the shepherds and simple people gathered around also have better understanding now. The prophesies are clear (Isaiah 60: 1-6) that kings will come from far to adore Him.
The Baptism of Jesus: John the Baptist and the gathering around had an ‘aha’ moment. They heard a voice from the sky, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased”. They came to the realisation of the divinity of Jesus. It is interesting to notice that the Eastern Orthodox Church celebrates this event with the baptism of Jesus.
Wedding at Cana: Jesus works his first miracle; and at the end the evangelist adds that Jesus did this to manifest his glory. It was an ‘aha’ moment for his disciples and others gathered for the wedding.

Secondly, Jesus the Messiah is not just for the Jews. Israel expected a Messiah; and they with their ‘chosen race’ mindset had the idea of an exclusive messiah. The second manifestation is about inclusivity. Here in the 2^nd chapter of Matthew’s gospel we read about the wise men from the East. Definitely they were not Jews. They are considered to be from Persia, present day Iran, possibly followers of Zoroastrian religion. They were outsiders. They have seen His star. They have recognised God’s revelation. Interestingly, Matthew ends his gospel with the commission of Jesus, Matthew 28, “Go, therefore, and make disciples from all nations.” Jesus had seen their faith.

epiphany is realisation of a greater life, quote

Jesus

Jesus is not a Church property; not even a Christian property. We shall not limit Jesus to our theology, rituals, structures, institutions and understanding. He is far beyond.

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