In this Holy season, after the Epiphany, Bishop Ward encourages us be people of mission, light, joy and courage.
“Arise; shine, for your light has come.” These joyful words of Isaiah greet us as the New Year begins; as the bright light of Epiphany shines; as we are beckoned to the place where the Christ child lies; as we present our gifts; as we give thanks to God, who has become incarnate, in our midst.
The light of Christ, indeed, shines forth into the world in this New Year; beckoning all to worship, to serve, and to embody the living Christ’s spirit. Matthew tells the story of wise ones, Magi, who followed a star to the place where the Christ child was.
The text is remarkable. It says that they followed the star until the star stopped over the place where the Child was. Heaven and earth proclaim that this is, indeed, the Savior of the world. The one who has come to restore to all humanity, and indeed, to all creation, the very likeness of God.
In this Holy season, after the Epiphany, let us be people of mission, people of light, people of joy, people of courage. The Magi present their gifts – gold, frankincense, and myrrh – strange gifts indeed for a tiny baby, and yet they are symbols of the great promise of the One who will live among us, teach, heal, finally offer His life for us. Crucified on a cross, he will be raised in triumphant glory.
Indeed, the light shines on this day. May this bright light of Epiphany shine upon your life. Arise, and shine, our light has indeed come. Thanks be to God.