An Epiphany
This Sunday is the Feast of the Presentation of Jesus in the Temple
– another place he is “revealed”, also called Candlemas. This is the
traditional day candles to be used in the church for the next year were
blessed. These candles were thought by some to have healing powers and lit the
way of the dying beyond this life. By them we are helped to see beyond things
as they are.
Today is also the 4th Sunday of the Epiphany - the
season we remember the magi going to greet Jesus and he is “revealed” to the Gentiles.
Originally Epiphany had the broader meaning of a moment of great revelation or
realization – and another moment was included - the baptism of Jesus. In the
gospel reading for this Sunday in Epiphany we hear the first action of Jesus
after choosing his disciples. Jesus is revealed as having authority to liberate
people from all that binds them/us. Mark gives permission for those listening to
stop assuming that things must stay as they are. New possibilities emerge – and
our way is lit into the reign of God. The nature of God is revealed in this
Jesus.
What does all that mean for us? What do we hope for was we
gather each Sunday? What assumptions might we let go of and what new ways of
seeing our life of faith are we being revealed?
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