Epiphany means “showing” or “revelation” or “manifestation.” In the Christian church year, it celebrates the manifestation of Christ to the Gentiles via the arrival of the Magi from the east. In Mexico it is called El Dia de los Reyes, The Day of the Kings. In Poland and Portugal people go out caroling on this day and in Maderia these songs are called “Cantar os Reis” or “singing the kings.” In Belgium as the children carol they knock on doors to sing their songs and are given treats or money. In Ireland there is an epiphany tradition called ‘Nollaig na mBean’ which means “Women’s Christmas” when women get the day off and men do the housework and cleaning (not a very good deal for the women if it happens only once a year). One Irish website reports that in County Cork, where the tradition is strongest, on January 6 the pubs are filled almost exclusively with women while the men stay home. From kings to sings, palaces to pubs, what is this holy-day truly showing or revealing to us? How does it fit with our call to be the light of the world? To illuminate?
One of the Epiphany texts for this year is Isaiah 6 where the prophet calls upon the faithful to, “arise and shine.” We are called to be the illuminations! “Arise, shine; for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you. 2 For darkness shall cover the earth, and thick darkness the peoples; but the Lord will arise upon you, and his glory will appear over you. 3 Nations shall come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your dawn.” Isaiah 6:1-3. When we “show” the light of Christ in our lives others will be drawn to the brightness of the illumination. If you would like to learn more about Epiphany and living an illuminated life I invite you to join us in worship at Middletown Community Methodist Church at 11 a.m. on Sunday Jan. 6. All are welcome and it will taste good. Come and see.
Melissa Hurley is Pastor at Middletown Community United Methodist Church.
Pastor Shannon will be preaching at Middletown Community United Methodist Church this Sunday. Please join us at 11 a.m. as we work for the transformation of the world and celebrate our illuminated lives. All Are Welcome.
