What is Epiphany and why does it matter?
Today marks twelve days past Christmas and also marks a holiday on the church calendar called the Feast of Epiphany. What is it and why does it matter?
The feast unites three events in the life of Christ when His divinity, as it were, shines through His humanity: the adoration of the Magi; the baptism of Christ in the Jordan; and the first miracle at the wedding feast of Cana.
Here are a few more quotes and links to help you understand this day along with verses you can read to guide your thoughts today. And join us Sunday as we look at Christ's baptism and the significance of what happened on that day.
"The word epiphany means “manifestation” or “revelation.” When Christians talk about Epiphany, we are referring to the three wise men or the Magi’s revelation that Jesus was the Christ, the Messiah that Israel had been waiting for (Matthew 2:1-12). On this day, we recognize the wise men’s journey to see, worship, and bring gifts to “the one...born king of the Jews” (Matthew 2:2). The Magi, wise men who studied the stars and were considered sinners, represent Jesus’ ability to draw all types of people to Him. He is a Savior who came for all people, including each one of us."
Read Full Article from Newspring Church
"Epiphany means “appearance or manifestation.” Throughout the world, Christians celebrate it on January 6 - 12 days after Christmas Day. Many countries refer to it as “Three Kings Day.” Since epiphany means manifestation, early celebrations honored any of the four manifestations of Christ. His birth, the adoration of the Magi, Jesus’ baptism, and the first miracle at Cana where Jesus turned water into wine."
Read Full Article at Christianity.com
An excerpt from TS Elliot's poem 'The Journey of the Magi':
"All this was a long time ago, I remember,
And I would do it again, but set down
This set down
This: were we led all that way for
Birth or Death? There was a Birth, certainly,
We had evidence and no doubt. I had seen birth and death,
But had thought they were different; this Birth was
Hard and bitter agony for us, like Death, our death.
We returned to our places, these Kingdoms,
But no longer at ease here, in the old dispensation,
With an alien people clutching their gods.
I should be glad of another death."
Click here for the full version along with a commentary on it's meaning
Verses to Read Today: