January 3. Nine days past Christmas. Three days until Epiphany. The anticipation is building.
Epiphany means "manifestation" or "appearance." It is the day when Christ was manifested to the nations, when the wise men arrived, when the good news broke beyond Israel to the whole world. And Christmastide is the countdown to that moment.
The true light, which gives light to everyone, was coming into the world.
John 1:9John wrote about the light coming into the world. And Epiphany is when the world saw that light. Not just the shepherds in the fields. Not just the Jewish people in Bethlehem. But the wise men from the east, the nations, the Gentiles. The light was for everyone.
The Progressive Revelation
God does not reveal everything at once. He reveals progressively, over time. At Christmas, He revealed Himself to the Jewish people through the manger. At Epiphany, He revealed Himself to the nations through the wise men. And He continues to reveal Himself to you, day by day, as you walk with Him.
So as you wait for Epiphany, ask: what is God revealing to me? What is He showing me that I did not see before? The Christmas story is not over. It is still unfolding. And you are part of it.
What Is God Revealing?
Epiphany is coming. And with it, a new revelation of who Jesus is. What has God been revealing to you lately? What truth is He making clear? Take time today to notice the revelation.
Father, thank you for the progressive revelation. Thank you that you do not show everything at once, but reveal yourself over time. As I wait for Epiphany, draw me closer. Show me what I need to see. Let the light that came into the world shine on me today. In Jesus' name, Amen.
With honesty and hope,
Claire