Manifestation of Jesus to the Peoples of all Nations

In any journey worth taking there is often some uncertainty. The journey of the Magi was one of uncertainty and discovery. Isaiah today says, ‘the darkness covers the earth, and thick clouds cover the peoples.’ and something is needed to pierce the darkness. It can happen when people have the courage to look and see and go beyond the familiar and comfortable to discover a presence not seen before.

What is it about the innocence of children who speak the truth and try to tell those in leadership that they are naked are so disturbing? A recent example is that of Greta Thunberg rubbished by the likes of people like Donald Trump. We have also witnessed politicians here in Australia chastise schoolchildren who, instead of going to school for a day, schooled the adults of this world, those in power, that they are losing power when they fail to act on the main issues of the day such as the climate emergency.

Today’s gospel reveals a shift. It focuses not on the end times but on the lead up to Jesus’  birth and Joseph’s reaction to the announcement of Mary’s pregnancy. Whenever something new is to happen in the scriptures, we hear the words, “Do not be afraid.” We are called to be open to God in changing times, as was Joseph, Mary. ‘Do not be afraid’ when Jesus is about to be born, when the resurrection is revealed, when the Holy Spirit is celebrated. Fear has become increasingly a guest on our national table and disguised as ‘national security’.