Epiphany
As we are already entering the second month of the year I thought it time to talk about Epiphany. This probably gets the least attention of all the seasons. Christmas, of course, gets most of our focus, and why not? With all of the gifts and well wishes and special services and peace on earth and good will towards all, how do you beat that?
But let us now move from the most to the least popular season in the church year. That's right, it is Lent. This time was originally introduced as a period of self denial and repentance. And this is likely why it is the least liked and most ignored. Turns out we are just not that big on self denial and telling God that we're sorry. Even Prayers of Confession do not appear often today in weekly worship.
Now Advent is more like it, mostly because it is leading up to the aforementioned Christmas! Advent is Latin for "to come to". And we, and most children, just can't wait to get there.
There is much more substance to the season of Easter once we get past the famous egg-bearing bunny. I often remember as a child thinking, and saying, that it would have been better for a rabbit to bring carrots. But this would only result with adults giving me a very brief and curious look before continuing on with their plans for special music and sunrise services. All good.
And now, finally, Epiphany. It is defined as " an experience of a sudden and striking realization". Epiphany also known as "Theophany" in Eastern Christian tradition, is a Christian feast
day commemorating the visit of the Magi and the baptism of Jesus. It is also "a moment when you suddenly feel that you understand, or suddenly become conscious of, something that is very important to you. Further, Epiphany, meaning “manifestation” or “showing forth”, has been celebrated since the end of the second century, before the Christmas holiday was established.
The movement from Advent to Epiphany marks a progression from darkness to light. People will often say, "I had an Epiphany". So, here we are, coming up to the fourth of seven Sundays celebrating this season of light and expanding awareness.
Finally, while we do not say, "Happy" or "Merry Epiphany", I pray that we may always continue in this season of awakening and realization.
May the Light of the World be with you!
Blessings
Rev. Dr. Bruce Sweet
Email: brucesweet4@gmail.com
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