As we enter the sacred season of Epiphany, we are invited to reflect on the profound revelations of God that unfold in our lives and in the world around us. Epiphany, derived from the Greek word meaning “manifestation” or “appearance,” is a time when we celebrate the light of Christ revealing itself in new and transformative ways. This season, which follows the joyous celebration of Christmas, encourages us to deepen our understanding of God’s presence, not only in the birth of Jesus but in the daily miracles of our existence. As it is beautifully stated in Isaiah 60:1, “Arise, shine; for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you.”

Throughout Epiphany, we witness the unfolding of divine truths—moments where the ordinary becomes extraordinary and where God’s love shines brightly even in the shadows. The stories of the Magi visiting the Christ child, Jesus’ baptism, and his first miracles illuminate the path of revelation. Each narrative invites us to recognize that God is actively revealing Himself to us, urging us to open our hearts and minds to the many ways His grace manifests in our lives. This is a season of discovery, where we can learn to see through the eyes of faith, recognizing that the sacred is often intertwined with the mundane. As we read in John 1:9, “The true light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world,” we are reminded that this light is not just for us but for all.

As members of our beloved Episcopal community, we are called to embrace this season with a spirit of curiosity and openness. It is a time to gather together in worship, prayer, and fellowship, allowing the light of Christ to guide us in our discussions and reflections. The Book of Common Prayer reminds us in the Collect for Epiphany, “O God, who by the leading of a star manifested your only Son to the people of the earth,” that our journey of faith is deeply connected to the revelations we receive together. Through scripture and shared experiences, we can engage in deeper conversations about how God is at work in our lives, confronting our doubts and illuminating our paths. The Epiphany season encourages us not just to receive this revelation but to actively participate in it, sharing the light we have discovered with those around us.

Moreover, Epiphany invites us to extend our understanding of God’s love beyond ourselves. As we reflect on the journey of the Magi, who traveled from distant lands to seek the newborn King, we are reminded of our own call to seek and serve. This season is an opportunity to consider how we might reveal God’s love to others—whether through acts of kindness, service, or simply by being present for those in need. In doing so, we embody the very essence of Epiphany, allowing the light of Christ to shine through us, illuminating the lives of others in our community.

As we journey through this season of Epiphany, let us hold fast to the promise of revelation. May we seek to understand more deeply the nature of God’s love and grace, recognizing that each moment holds the potential for divine encounter. Together, let us embrace the light that has come into the world, allowing it to transform us, our community, and the world at large. In love and compassion, we walk this path of discovery, eager to share the joy of God’s revelations with all we meet.

-Myra Strand