On January 6, Lutherans celebrate Epiphany, the day the Magi came to worship the Christ-Child. The word Epiphany means manifestation. It is the 12th day of Christmas and begins a season of the church calendar that lasts until Lent.
The Magi were wise and learned people who held rank and prestige in the East; nevertheless, they set out on a journey to seek the One who is ultimate Wisdom, the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, the Prince of Peace, the One who is the Light of the world and giver of Light and Life to a world that matters so much to him, that he came to be born as one of us, in order to draw us closer to him.
The Magi sought Christ, worshipped him, and showed forth his glory to others. As Christians, we are called to seek, adore, show, and reflect Christ to others. We are called to follow Jesus, and be the light of the world to others that they may know God’s grace and love through us.
The Magi brought gifts to the baby Jesus fit for a prophet, a priest, and a king; they gave of their best to Emmanuel, the One who is God with us. How are we giving generously of “ourselves, our time, and our possessions” in our service to Christ and those whom he loves? Are we reflections of the One who is Light and gives us love, mercy, and forgiveness? Are we lights shining in a dark world and reflecting the same love, mercy, and forgiveness that we have received from him?
The theme of Epiphany highlights how God became human and is shown to us in Jesus, the One who gives us life and salvation; the theme of Epiphany continues in our service shown to a broken world in need of healing and wholeness, as we serve in the name of Christ. This Epiphany season, may you be reflections of Jesus the Light, that all may know the incredible love of God in Christ Jesus, Our Lord.
+Bishop Wilma S. Kucharek
“I want to walk as a child of the light. I want to follow Jesus.
God set the stars to give light to the world. The star of my life is Jesus.
In him there is no darkness at all. The night and the day are both alike.
The Lamb is the light of the city of God. Shine in my heart, Lord Jesus.” (ELW 815, vs 1)
