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“And there, ahead of them, went the star that they had seen at its rising, until it stopped over the place where the child was. When they saw that the star had stopped, they were overwhelmed with joy. On entering the house, they saw the child with Mary, his mother, and they knelt down and paid him homage. Then, opening their treasure chests, they offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.”
Matthew 2:9b-11

January 6th is the day set aside for Epiphany. It is the day celebrating the coming of the Magi who are identified as the representatives of the nations. They came to worship Jesus bringing gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. The day marks the beginning of the season of the manifestation of the light and glory of Christ for the whole world. It is a time for us to focus on evangelism and mission. We are to proclaim God’s presence and witness to our only true source of hope, Jesus Christ.

As we begin 2008 and journey through Epiphany here are some questions to consider:

What are the gifts you are bringing as you worship Jesus?

In this season of light and glory, where can you let your light shine?

What new and exciting focus is God calling you to?

Where will you proclaim God’s presence and witness to Jesus Christ?
This is a great time of the year to think about where you’ve been and dream about where you are going. This is a great time to give thanks to God for that steadfast love and faithfulness which has carried you through. The same is true about our community of faith. God has been steadfast in leading and guiding and promises to continue in our journey together.

Here are a couple of other odds and ends I have heard over the years that I would like you to think about:

Seven days without prayer makes one Weak.

We tithe to the waitress and tip God.

Labels belong on clothes not people.

Happy New Years – Blessed Epiphany! Let your light shine.