06 JAN - Epiphany
For many people, their
understanding of the Epiphany comes from a hymn about 3 oriental kings, each
bringing one valuable gift to the infant Jesus. The hymn writer, however, took
quite a few liberties. The evangelist reveals a different narrative, one
of educated men of wisdom who were astute enough to recognise the sign of
cosmic revelation. As a result, these men (of a very different religion) spent
years travelling great distances with their entourages (one does not venture
out alone across the desert with treasure-chests!). They did not know how long
it would take them, or what their final destination was: but they knew it was
worth it, that God was revealing something fantastic to the world, and that
they were privileged to participate in it. So they faithfully followed the
star, trusting that their journey was part of a greater ministry - and for
thousands of years we have all been the better for it. May we all have such
faith, wisdom, and commitment to follow where God is calling us to service in
the world!
13 JAN - Baptism
of the Lord
"The people
were filled with expectation," our Gospel passage starts, as they wonder
if John the Baptist was God's Chosen One, the Messiah, the Saviour for all
humankind.
How easy it would have been for him to say yes, to receive the honour and glory
and fame that the people were wanting to shower upon him; even though he knew
it did not belong to him.
What a powerful teaching we have from John, then, as he clarifies firmly but
compassionately that he knows who he is, and what his ministry is; and that he
will not allow people to over-inflate their understanding of him. John uses the
people's interest to direct their attention towards God, where it belongs.
In a culture where so many seek their 15 minutes of fame (by whatever means!),
and where celebrities are revered and adored, how refreshing to find the Johns
of today: those who know who they are, and whose they are, and help direct
others to the truth of God in our midst.
20 JAN - baptism
in the parish
Today we celebrate a baptism! While baptism is the sacrament of Christian welcome, we know that God's relationship with [name] began long before we ever met him. So what we are doing today is offering thanks for that relationship, and celebrating [name]'s relationship with the church.
And as we remember our own baptisms, and renew our own promises with God, we
prayerfully consider again how we are called to live our lives, in love and
service, finding ways to use the gifts God has given us to make the world a
better place - because we are the baptized family of God.
Thanks be to God for [name], for his siblings [names], and for the deep delight
we all experience in baptism.
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