Epiphany – Be Surprised

Unlike last year, we will have to wait another month before we begin the season of Lent. We are still in the season of Epiphany as we journey thru February. A textbook definition of Epiphany is a moment when you suddenly feel that you understand. In other words, it is that “aha” moment, a moment that catches you by surprise when you least expect it. In scripture, it is that moment when the Divine breaks into spaces where the ordinary (people) dwell. Epiphany is not a New Testament concept. It happens all through the Old Testament beginning with Abraham encountering the three visitors under the trees of Mamre in Genesis 18. It also happens with Moses when he encounters God in the burning bush. These are theophanic moments when God comes to meet us.

The church’s liturgical calendar starts with the season of Advent (the 4 Sundays before Christmas) followed by Christmas and now we are in the season of Epiphany. Epiphany also known as “Theophany” in Eastern Christian tradition, is a Christian feast day commemorating the visit of the Magi, the baptism of Jesus and the Wedding at Cana.

The gospel writers, tell us about the epiphanies of God in their unique way. In Matthew, it is the story of the Magi’s visit to see the “toddler” Jesus in the house where they live. The coming of the Magi on the Sunday after New Year is to alert us that God’s revelation of His grand plan of salvation is for ALL the world and not just the few. In Mark, it is the healing of the man who is possessed by demons and him confessing that Jesus is God while the whole congregation of devout followers of YHWH completely missing it.

In Luke, it is the miraculous catch of fish on the shores of Galilee. The miracle turns into a call for missions. This is a true epiphany story, where Peter encounters the living God and in true fashion of theophany, Peter falls prostrate as he recognizes Jesus to be the Savior of the world. He is ready to take the next step of following Jesus leaving everything behind – his profession and family. Finally, in John, it is the wedding at Cana. This is another miracle story but does not lead to discipleship. The interesting aspect of that story is that the poor and meek servants at the party who recognize Jesus miraculous power. It is still an epiphany story because God reveals Himself to the most unlikely – the servants at the wedding party.

So, you see, Epiphany is about God showing up in unlikely places, among unlikely people and in the least expected ways. We worship that same God even in this time and space. So, this is what I have in mind for you as you journey thru this season:

First, pray for God’s sightings as you journey thru February. God sighting is an exercise that we do with the Sunday school children where we ask them this simple question: where did you see God this week? Their answers have often surprised us. God is still in the act of showing up in ordinary places often in our places of work and leisure. Second, be open to the element of surprise. When you come to church, come with anticipation that God will meet you in worship. When you read scripture wait in holy anticipation for God to speak to you. And, finally, don’t limit to what God can do in your life. The wedding at Cana is a powerful reminder that God can change crisis situations into moments of praise. I pray that this epiphany season will be a blessing to you.

Thank you for being a church that watches out for epiphanic moments as you move thru this month. May we be a church that is sensitive to God’s call and responds with bold faith and abundant generosity. It is an honor to serve alongside you as we seek to embody Christ’s love in our community and beyond.