Magic is not a subject that we often talk about in church. In fact churches are known for being anti-magic, with a reputation for everything from burning witches at the stake to banning books like Harry Potter. In this rejection of magic I think we’ve lost something, a way to name the wonder and awe of divine celebration.
This is true for me especially at epiphany, the day on which folks in traditional churches celebrate the arrival of the wise men to see the child Jesus. In fact the greek word to describe the wise men is μάγοι, often written in English as magi. This is the root word of magic. Astronomers, alchemists, illusionist, fortune tellers, and the like were labeled as magi as were the Zoroastrians, practitioners of an ancient Persian religion. There is a mysteriousness here. This story is full of meaning and depth from bright stars to prophetic gifts to warning dreams. It is a magic tale.
As a child the wise men were by far my favorite members of the creche scene. Maybe it was the presents or how their opulence contrasted with the shepherds and the humble stable. Perhaps it was the star, following something like that so different from my map based life. There is something quiet and majestic about the three kings that has always fascinated me.
Sometimes in the day to day work of church, in the well worn aspects of my faith I long for a bit of mystery. I need to be reminded by ones who journeyed far on the strength of nothing more than a star that sometimes risking is holy. Today, January 6th, is the day of epiphany, a day to encounter magic, to look for the unexpected visitor, to perhaps give or receive gift. Today I’m embracing the wonder of this glorious existence and looking for the spark of something deep and beyond words. I have already found so much mystery and magic in this work of planting a new church, I’m eager to see what the next phase brings.
-Eilidh
Recent Comments