Advent Devotional – Epiphany

Matthew 2:1-12

Biblical scholars tell us that this story fulfills Isaiah’s prophecy of the Messiah coming not only for the Jews but also for all the Nations. The story of these Wisemen (probably astronomers) leaving their homes in three distant places and following the star to the Christ child gives us an example of persistence and devotion much like the Disciples show when Jesus says to them “Follow me.” When the star stops over the place where the Christ Child is, the Wisemen “open their treasure chests” and give their gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh… the very finest gifts they had to bring.

One Epiphany tradition is a home blessing and dedication. The letters
C, M, B are written in chalk on the lintel of the front door. These letters stand for Christus Mansionem Benedicat (Christ, bless this home) and are reminders of the commitment to follow Christ’s leading throughout the year.

PRAYER: God help us to rededicate our lives to you and to follow the light of Jesus with determination like the Wisemen who followed His star. Amen.

Martha Osborne