The Season of Epiphany

The Season of Epiphany (Epiphany means manifestation) is the time that the church celebrates the coming of the magi to worship the child Jesus. In the eastern tradition, Epiphany celebrates the baptism of Jesus by John in the Jordan river. The season continues through the presentation of Jesus at the temple. Jesus is recognized as the light of the gentiles and the glory of Israel.  The lectionary readings follow this theme, in the epistles we are reminded of the light as a mystery revealed in Jesus Christ. In the Gospels, the light is recognized by the magi, who come from afar seeking to worship the newborn king.  However, humanity can ignore or reject this light as is seen in King Herod who tries to extinguish the flame because it threatens his own political agenda and personal kingdom.  This season is a time to reflect on the light that has come into the world to shine into our darkness.  Whereas Advent was a time of preparation, as we opened our heart to Christ, and Christmas a time of celebration, now the task is on bringing the light to the world.  We are called to abandon our own kingdom and agenda and humbly worship at the feet of Jesus in humility.  Where some may react like Herod in fear and anxiety to the light, self protecting their own interests, we are called to embrace the light, with an open mindedness and curiosity, a desire for discovery and search for God's wisdom, this is exemplified in the journey of the magi.  We are called to seek the truth and its implication for our lives in Jesus Christ.   This leads up to the glory that is revealed at the Transfiguration.  This glory must be won through suffering, and the joy of Christmas, and the glory of Jesus will give way to the mysteries of suffering of Holy Week and the ultimate victory of resurrection at Easter.  

New Year Resolutions

One of the traditions of welcoming in the new year is to make resolutions for the coming year.  Resolutions are intentions to make a change in habits or lifestyle, usually for the better, in the new year.  Sometimes this can include spiritual commitments.  One of the functions of this site is to find resources that may be able to assist Christians in developing spiritual disciplines to grow our faith.  One way is to intentionally make time during our day or week to read scripture, pray, and worship.  This can be done corporately and individually.  It is always best to have some time set aside to do this in community with other Christians, but all of us have some time in which we need to spend our own time in spiritual meditation and prayer.  One resource developed especially for students is called d365.  It is a cooperative of the Episcopal church, Presbyterian Mission Agency and Cooperative Baptist Fellowship.  Devotions are available throughout the year but common liturgical seasons of Advent, Lent, Christmas and Easter are highlighted.  Scripture, music, a meditation and time of prayer are designed into the on line devotional experience.  The link below will send you from this blog to the d365 site where you can sign up to receive information or emails, or you can choose to do the devotion from the main site.  Music is also available from the site.   If you are a student or work in student ministries preview and recommend this site to your youth or college group.  Use it in your own time as a spiritual discipline and add it to your resolutions this year.  Happy 2016, and may this be a year of spiritual growth and vitality as together we continue to seek God's kingdom above all else.

click to be directed to d365 online devotions site