Rainbow religion
Ancient scribes said it would happen. Kings would arrive, bearing gifts, for the Chosen One. ‘All kings of the earth shall adore him,’ said a Jewish poet, ‘all nations shall serve him’ (Psalm 71).
That’s what we celebrate today, on The Epiphany Of Our Lord. Wise men came from the east with special presents for the Christ-child. But it’s not just part of the culmination of the Christmas story.
BROKE BARRIERS
Today at Arundel Cathedral, we heard it’s also a pivotal moment in history. For even in his infancy, Jesus broke down barriers. He started to draw together people from different racial and religious backgrounds. He showed his plan was to spearhead a new multi-cultural, multi-ethnic movement.
Years ago I wrote a news story about meetings between Israeli and Palestinian Christians. Sadly, they had to gather in secret. Their people wouldn’t accept such radical behaviour.
I’ve also written stories about Catholic and Protestant paramilitaries laying down their weapons and becoming friends in Northern Ireland. This is the true Gospel in action. It has power to cross the deep chasms that separate us all.
GREAT DIVIDE
At Epiphany, we see this displayed in a baby. He brought together Jew and Gentile, believer and pagan – across great racial, philosophical and geographical divides. Dare we unleash the full power of this story? Be careful. Some people might not like it.
Yet Jesus showed us what it takes to become fully human. It takes love. (Photo of the crib at Arundel Cathedral by Clive Price)
