Much is still being said and shown on various news sources concerning the events that took place two years ago this day in Washington D.C. and at the U.S. Capitol building, and the House Committee that was established to investigate the people and the proceedings leading up to and on January 6, 2021.
For Christians, however, January 6 is about something far more significant than a rally and speeches, a march, a protest, an assault, attack, break-in, insurrection, riot, siege, storming, terrorism, or whatever other words have been and still are used to describe those few hours on that fateful day.
Today, January 6, is the Epiphany of Our Lord. The feast of the Epiphany, a word that means “manifestation”, concludes the Christmas season with a celebration of God’s glory revealed in the person of Jesus, born of Mary in Bethlehem (Luke 2:1-20). In readings from Isaiah and Ephesians, that glory is proclaimed for all nations and people. Like the light of the star that guided the magi or wise men to Jesus (Matthew 2:1-12), the light of Christ reveals who we are: children of God who are claimed and washed in the waters of baptism. We are sent out to be beacons of the light of Christ, sharing the good news of God’s love for and to all people.
Prayer of the Day
O God, on this day you revealed your Son to the nations by the leading of a star. Lead us now by faith to know your presence in our lives, and bring us at last to the full vision of your glory, through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
Or
Almighty and ever-living God, you revealed the incarnation of your Son by the brilliant shining of a star. Shine the light of your justice always in our hearts and over all lands, and accept our lives as the treasure we offer in your praise and for your service, through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
Or
Everlasting God, the radiance of all faithful people, you brought the nations to the brightness of your rising. Fill the world with your glory, and show yourself to all the world through him who is the true light and the bright morning star, your Son, Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
Readings and Psalm
Isaiah 60:1-6 Nations come to the light
Psalm 72: 1-7, 10-14 All kings shall bow down before him. (Ps. 72:11)
Ephesians 3:1-12 The gospel’s promise extends to all
Matthew 2:1-12 Revelation of Christ to the nations of the earth
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STAR ON THE HILL 