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From the Pastor’s Desk:

 

The Liturgical Season of Epiphany: A Time of Revelation and Light

 

The liturgical season of Epiphany is one of profound beauty and significance in the Christian calendar. It begins on January 6th, following the twelve days of Christmas, and extends until the start of Lent. This season invites us to reflect on the revelation of Christ to the world and to celebrate the divine light that illuminates our lives. As we journey through Epiphany, we are reminded of God’s boundless love and the call to share this love with all people.

 

Themes of Revelation and Light

Epiphany derives from the Greek word epiphaneia, meaning “manifestation” or “revealing.” This season celebrates the moments when Christ’s divine nature is revealed to humanity. Central to Epiphany is the story of the Magi, found in Matthew 2:1-12, where the Magi from the East follow a star to find and worship the Christ child. This narrative underscores the universality of Jesus—a Savior for all nations, not just for Israel.

 

Another significant event commemorated during Epiphany is Jesus’ baptism in the Jordan River (Mark 1:9-11). At His baptism, the heavens open, the Spirit descends like a dove, and the voice of God declares, ‘You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased.’ This moment reveals Jesus as the beloved Son of God and marks the beginning of His public ministry.

 

The season also highlights the first miracle at the wedding in Cana (John 2:1-11), where Jesus turns water into wine. This miracle, often called the first sign, points to His divine power and foreshadows the joy and abundance of God’s kingdom.

 

The Colors of Epiphany: White and Green

In many traditions, the liturgical color for the day of Epiphany is white. White symbolizes purity, light, and the divine nature of Christ, reminding us of the majesty of Jesus’ revelation to the world and the hope He brings. Following the day of Epiphany, the Sundays after Epiphany are marked by the color green. Green represents growth, life, and the ongoing work of God in the world through the ministry of Jesus and the Church. This transition in colors reflects both the divine revelation of Christ and our call to live out that revelation in our daily lives.

 

The use of white during the day of Epiphany underscores the season’s themes of light and revelation. In John 8:12, Jesus declares, ‘I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.’ Green, in turn, invites us to embrace the season’s call to spiritual growth and renewal as we live in response to the light of Christ.

 

The Call of Epiphany

Epiphany challenges us to seek the light of Christ and to reflect that light in our own lives. Just as the Magi journeyed to find Jesus, we are called to embark on our spiritual journeys, seeking to know Him more deeply. The season also reminds us of our mission to share the Good News with others. In Matthew 5:14-16, Jesus tells His followers, ‘You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden… Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.’

 

Epiphany is a time to recognize the ways God reveals Himself to us in our daily lives. Whether through scripture, prayer, worship, or the beauty of creation, God’s presence is constantly being made known. As we reflect on these revelations, we are encouraged to respond with gratitude and to live as witnesses to His love.

 

Celebrating Epiphany

During this season, consider how you can embrace the light of Christ and share it with others. Participate in worship, where the white and green paraments serve as visual reminders of the season’s significance. Reflect on the scripture passages associated with Epiphany and meditate on how they reveal God’s glory. Engage in acts of kindness and generosity, allowing Christ’s light to shine through you.

 

Epiphany is more than a season; it is an invitation to live in the light of Christ and to carry that light into the world. As we journey through this time, may we be filled with the hope, joy, and wonder of God’s revelation. Let us celebrate the God who reveals Himself to all people, and let us respond by shining His light in every corner of our lives.