Thoughts on Epiphany

Sometimes in our church services, we hear the word "Epiphany." This day, celebrated on January 6th -- or on the Sundays immediately before or after the date -- recognizes the coming of the Magi to the Christ Child. Despite what we see represented in our nativity sets, this did not occur on the night of the birth of Christ, but actually occurred about two years later (hence Herod's command to kill all children two years of age or younger).

According to the dictionary, this day celebrates "the manifestation of the divine nature of Christ to the Gentiles." This definition points out the fact that Christ did not just come for the nation of Israel but for all people -- Jew and Gentile. The coming of the Gentiles in obedience and adoration of the Christ child was representative of the coming of the Gentiles to Christ in belief after the resurrection.

According to Paul McCain (http://paulmccain.worldmagblog.com/paulmccain/):

""Epiphany" a word that comes from two Greek words, "epi" meaning "upon" and "phaneo" meaning "to shine" -- hence, Epiphany, the season of the church year devoted to careful devotion to, and praise of, the light of Christ shining forth in and on the world. We will hear in this season the account of the visit of the wise men, our Lord's baptism, his first miracle, and then it will culminate on the Sunday of Transfiguration, right before the beginning on Lent on Ash Wednesday on Feb. 9. "

In that light, let me ask you two questions as we begin a new year in Christ:

1. Is your life reflecting the light of Christ? Have you received the empowerment of the Holy Spirit and are you walking with the Lord daily?

2. Is your light shining on others? Are you sharing with others the good news of Christ? Are you being His hands and feet, shining forth His light to a dark world as you meet the physical and spiritual needs of others?

I would encourage you to accept as your theme song for this year the children's classic song, "This little light of mine." The meaning of this song brings forth the purpose of epiphany in our lives in this new year:

"This little light of mine -- I'm gonna let it shine. This little light of mine -- I'm gonna let it shine. Let it shine. Let it shine. Let it shine.

Shine all around the neighborhood -- I'm gonna let it shine. Shine all around the neighborhood -- I'm gonna let it shine. Let it shine. Let it shine. Let it shine.

Hide it under a bushel? No! I'm gonna let it shine. Hide it under a bushel? No! I'm gonna let it shine. Let it shine. Let it shine. Let it shine."

May your light shine forth in this new year as you reflect the light and love of Christ to others.