Epiphany: Light for the Nations

What is Epiphany?

Epiphany is the season when we celebrate God’s light breaking into the world through Jesus Christ. The word “epiphany” comes from a Greek word meaning “appearance” or “manifestation.” It’s a reminder that God’s love didn’t stay hidden. In Christ, God revealed Himself not just to Israel but to all people. That’s good news: His light shines for everyone, everywhere.

When is Epiphany?

Epiphany starts on January 6, wrapping up the twelve days of Christmas. Some traditions, like the Anglican and Episcopal churches, extend Epiphany into a season that lasts until Ash Wednesday, preparing us for Lent. During these weeks, the church reflects on five key moments that show Jesus revealing His mission and identity.

The Gospel Revealed 

Each key moment during Epiphany reveals something essential about Jesus and invites us to respond: 

1. The Visit of the Magi (Matthew 2:1-12)

The Magi—Gentile astrologers from the East—show us that Jesus is not just for Israel. God’s salvation is for everyone, no matter their background. The gifts they bring—gold, frankincense, and myrrh—point to Jesus as King, Priest, and Sacrifice. Their journey reminds us that the gospel transcends borders, calling the church to proclaim this good news to every nation.

2. The Baptism of Jesus (Mark 1:9-11)

At His baptism, the heavens open, and the Father declares, “You are my beloved Son.” This moment reveals Jesus’ identity and mission. Just as God’s Spirit rested on Christ, marking Him as the one who takes on the burden of sin, we, too, are marked by grace in baptism. Through Christ, we hear the same words: “You are my beloved child.”

3. The Wedding at Cana (John 2:1-11)

Jesus’ first miracle—turning water into wine—points to God’s abundant grace. Where there is lack, Jesus provides more than we could imagine. This miracle foreshadows the joy of the kingdom of God, inviting us to trust in His provision even when we feel like we’ve run out of hope.

4. The Presentation of Jesus in the Temple (Luke 2:22-40)

Simeon and Anna recognize Jesus as the Messiah, declaring that He is “a light for revelation to the Gentiles.” This moment connects the old and new covenants, showing that God’s promises to Israel find their fulfillment in Christ—and extend to all people. Simeon and Anna’s faith invites us to trust God’s promises, even in seasons of waiting.

5. The Calling of the Disciples (John 1:35-51)

When Jesus calls His disciples, He invites ordinary people into His extraordinary mission. His call is grounded in grace, not merit—He doesn’t call the qualified; He qualifies the called. Discipleship isn’t a solo journey; it happens in community as we follow Jesus together.

Living in Epiphany Light 

Epiphany reminds us that God meets us where we are, drawing us into His mission of grace. Just as the Magi followed a star, we’re invited to follow Jesus—even when the path is unclear. And like the disciples, we’re called to proclaim the good news in ordinary moments, trusting that God’s light is shining in and through us.

While this season focuses on happened in the past; it also focuses us on what God is doing now. He is still revealing Himself to the world in the proclamation of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, still calling us to participate in His mission, and still shining His light in the darkest places.

The Light Still Shines 

Epiphany reminds us that Jesus came for us all—for the struggling and the doubting, the broken and the burdened. God’s love isn’t limited to the perfect or the polished. It’s for every tribe, tongue, and nation, including you. And the good news is that His light is still shining, even now, calling us to follow Him and reflect His love to a world in need.