Epiphany
February 27, 2009
Epiphany
The term epiphany means, "to show”, “to make known”, or even "to reveal." The season of Epiphany always begins on January 6th after the 12th day of Christmas; it ends on the day before Ash Wednesday, the beginning of Lent. The season of Epiphany is a time of focusing on the mission of the church in reaching others by "showing" Jesus as the Savior of all people. The Wise men who brought gifts to the infant Jesus were the first to acknowledge Jesus as King. This act of worship by the Wise men was one of the first indications that Jesus came for all people, of all nations, of all races, and that the work of God in the world would not be limited to only a few. Epiphany is a time to meditate on the coming of light to the whole world in Jesus Christ, a time for us to spread the light of Christ’s forgiving and redeeming love.
An Epiphany Prayer
O Christ, the light of a star led the Wise men to you. Help us guide others to your unfading light. O Christ, in the River Jordan you were proclaimed God’s beloved child. Strengthen us in our baptism and empower us to live as Children of the Light. O Christ, you have brought us to new life. Renew in us the power of your Spirit so that we may follow you in peace. O Christ, you were anointed by the Spirit to bring good news to the afflicted. Give us the grace to serve all in need. Amen.
