Isaiah 60.1-6 The prophet speaks of an earth-shattering light that bursts into this mire of darkness that had seemed intent on overtaking everything. It is so powerful that everything is drawn to it. Those at war now come together in awestruck peace, and the light brings abundance and life with it to all within its glow.
Psalm 72.1-7, 10-14 The psalmist offers a prayer on behalf of their king and his people, wishing for peace, honour, bounty, and generosity for the poor. Like the light in Isaiah and Jesus in Matthew are portrayed, the psalm depicts a longing for a leader who will be a ‘king of kings’, one who causes all others in power to kneel in respect and deference.
Ephesians 3.1-12 Paul describes himself as a prisoner for Christ, as that is the depth of his commitment to the gospel message. Although he is helplessly bound to Christ in every way, he still sees the revelation of the mystery of what Jesus is about as a great privilege. While he does find power in his role in the way of the gospel is playing out, he still considers himself to be a servant more than a figurehead. Part of the mystery that is revealed is that God's grace has been broken out of the tribal favouritism and is now available to everyone.
Matthew 2.1-12 The wise men hear of the birth of a new Jewish king, so they come to Herod, the regional ruler, to ask about him. Herod, of course, acts intrigued but actually sees this as an insurgent threat and asks them to let him know when they find the new-born. They come to Jesus, bring him gifts, and then leave in secret, as they have been warned in a dream not to share Jesus’s whereabouts with Herod.
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