Epiphany

DAILY READING

John 1:10-18

FIELD NOTES

Next week, on January 6, we will celebrate “Epiphany” — the twelfth day following Christmas which commemorates the day the wise men from the East visited Jesus and honored him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.

Merriam Webster’s online dictionary gives us more definitions of the word “epiphany” — 1. “a usually sudden manifestation or perception of the essential nature or meaning of something;” 2. “an intuitive grasp of reality through something (such as an event) usually simple and striking;” and 3. “an illuminating discovery, realization, or disclosure.”  These meanings of the word remind us that through Jesus’ incarnation, humankind had the opportunity to perceive God’s “essential nature” and the ultimate meaning of life — bringing God’s kingdom to earth.

As this new year begins, Epiphany gives us the opportunity to re-center our lives on Jesus’ mission of bringing God’s kingdom to this earth. 

QUESTIONS FOR THE FIELD

• How will you celebrate Epiphany this year?
• What gifts would you bring Jesus?
• What tangible step can you take to re-center your life on Jesus’ mission of bringing God’s kingdom to earth?

FAMILY FIELD TALK

• If you were one of the wise men who visited baby Jesus, what special gift would you give to honor him?

PRAYER GUIDE

God who comes to us, we pray for illumination and light in our lives. We ask that you reveal yourself and your glory to us and give us purity of heart and intention to join you in your mission of bringing your kingdom to earth. Amen.