Reason for Epiphany

Isaiah 9: 6-7

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this.

Matthew 2: 11

On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshipped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold and of incense and of myrrh.

Epiphany (Epiphainein in Greek) means to reveal, illuminate, discovery resulting in joy, wonder and awe. It is observed on the 12^th night after Christmas which happens to fall on January 6^th. Orthodox, Anglican, Catholic and other liturgical churches observe this holiday. However, Epiphany celebration is not just associated with Christ’s birth but other events in His life. Most churches associate the Magi’s visit as a celebration of Epiphany as this is the first time that Christ is revealed as Lord and King to the Gentiles. The three wise men were the first Gentiles who recognized Christ’s divinity. Other churches also celebrate Epiphany in observance of Christ’s baptism by John the Baptist in the River Jordan. He was revealed as the Son of God. Some others commemorate Epiphany in remembrance of Christ’s first miracle of turning water into wine at the wedding in Cana. He was revealed to the Israelites as a miracle working God.

Church today celebrates Epiphany to remind themselves of their responsibility to reveal Jesus Christ as the Lord and Savior, atonement for the sins of mankind. This is a time of fellowship and prayer with the church body. This blessed season in the church calendar ends when Lent begins. The Sunday before Ash Wednesday is observed as Transfiguration Sunday.

Whatever be the reason for Epiphany, we have every reason to celebrate the birth and life of Jesus Christ. He has called us to a holy life. The grace given to us through Jesus Christ conceived before the beginning of time, has now been revealed through the appearing of our Savior, Redeemer, Restorer, King of kings and Lord of lords, Jesus Christ. He who has conquered death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel has commissioned us to spread the Word so many may enter in. Let us do our part in this celebration of Epiphany by revealing the Savior of the world to the lost world. May God be with you as you spread the truth.