A United Methodist Pastor's Theological Reflections

"But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory (nikos) through our Lord Jesus Christ." - I Corinthians 15:57


Friday, January 6, 2012

Having an Epiphany



In the West, we celebrate Epiphany (the visit of the Wise Men) on January 6 which is the twelfth day of Christmas.  It's a day to reflect on the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, his presence with us as our Emmanuel, and the manifestation of Christ to the world.  Epiphany is also a time for us to think about how we are manifesting the good news and light of Jesus Christ in our community and world.

Earlier this week, a member of the church invited me to attend an Ohio State men's basketball game with him and another member of the church.  As we were driving to the game, we were talking guy things like ESPN, the bowl games, and what we might expect from the game that we were going to see.  In the middle of one of those conversation, all three of us paused in our conversation as we noticed one of the most vivid and beautiful sunsets that we had seen in a while.

The deep orange and yellow glow from the Western sky got our attention as we got a glimpse of the beauty of God's creation.  On this Epiphany Day, may we be open to the glimpses of God's beauty and majesty as we conclude the Christmas season.  And for the days ahead, may we manifest the love of Jesus Christ in all that we say and do.

Epiphany Prayer:
O God, by the leading of a star you manifested your only Son to the Peoples of the earth: Lead us, who know you now by faith, to your presence, where we may see your glory face to face; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
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