Dear Friends,

 

O star of wonder, star of light
Star with royal beauty bright.
Westward leading, still proceeding
Guide us to thy perfect light. 

 

 

The visit of the Wise Men or Magi to the infant Jesus is celebrated every year on January 6th and is observed in church on the Sunday closest to it.  So, Sunday, we begin Epiphany. In this light-filled season, the readings deal with Jesus’ identity, beginning with this visit of the three strangers who are lead by a star to the manger.  The guiding image of Epiphany is light which represents the recognition of Jesus as God with us. Each scripture helps us to piece together who Jesus really is.  First of all, the wise men, strangers “not like us” are drawn to the manger of this Jewish baby and find great meaning for their lives.  In Jesus’ baptism, rising from the water, God acknowledges Jesus with the words, “This is my son, in whom I am well pleased.”  The ultimate revealing comes on the last Sunday of the season, Transfiguration Sunday, when God acknowledges Jesus as the chosen one in whom God is well pleased.

 

 

In worship on Sunday morning, we will focus on Matthew 2:1-12 and begin our year sharing in the Sacrament of Holy Communion.  At Revive at 5:00 pm., we will worship together around the theme of Jesus’ baptism and will share in a renewal of baptism ritual.

 

 

May the light of Christ shine on you this season.

 

 

Rev. Martha