Liz’s Morning Devotional based upon Upper Room
January 6, 2022
Read Matthew 2:1-12
1 After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in the territory of Judea during the rule of King Herod, magi came from the east to Jerusalem. 2 They asked, “Where is the newborn king of the Jews? We’ve seen his star in the east, and we’ve come to honor him.” 3 When King Herod heard this, he was troubled, and everyone in Jerusalem was troubled with him. 4 He gathered all the chief priests and the legal experts and asked them where the Christ was to be born. 5 They said, “In Bethlehem of Judea, for this is what the prophet wrote: 6 You, Bethlehem, land of Judah, by no means are you least among the rulers of Judah because from you will come one who governs, who will shepherd my people Israel.” 7 Then Herod secretly called for the magi and found out from them the time when the star had first appeared. 8 He sent them to Bethlehem, saying, “Go and search carefully for the child. When you’ve found him, report to me so that I too may go and honor him.” 9 When they heard the king, they went; and look, the star they had seen in the east went ahead of them until it stood over the place where the child was. 10 When they saw the star, they were filled with joy. 11 They entered the house and saw the child with Mary his mother. Falling to their knees, they honored him. Then they opened their treasure chests and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. 12 Because they were warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they went back to their own country by another route.
Good Morning! Celebrate the Revealing of Christ, the Light of the World!
It’s funny how we remember some things and forget other things. Thirty-seven years ago, Lowell and I arrived at the hospital early in the morning for the arrival of Elliott, our youngest son. I remember that event quite vividly. It was the first time that we were away from all our family in Indiana when he arrived, so there were special arrangements to be made to care for Gabriel and Alex. Like Mary and Joseph, we had to count on the kindness of others to help us on this special day. Fortunately, we were able to deliver our baby in the hospital, not in a stable. LOL
Anyway, here is the part I don’t remember. Did I hold Epiphany in such esteem prior to 1984? I don’t know. I always have loved the Advent/Christmas season and tried to allow the glow to linger as long as possible. What I do remember is that beginning in 1984, I set aside special time each year and have chosen to extend the holiday season to January 6 as we celebrate the revealing of Christ to the world.
Last year, the people of Rodes and I celebrated Epiphany in a beautiful outdoor setting with luminaries placed to light the way for the Magi. That service will always hold a special place in my heart as I remember that special nine months of ministry.
Epiphany signifies the revealing of the light to the world: a new day has begun. Through Christ, the son of God, our world will be forever changed, even turned upside down. The old ways are gone and love is a new way. Jesus came to show us the way as he lights the way to eternal life. We are called to be the light for those still in darkness. I would like to share again a poem that I was inspired to write last January. I hope you are blessed by reading it.
The Light on the Hill
Each night the light of love and mercy shines on the hill,
Awaiting the dawning of a new day, it shines
Through times of trouble and times of celebration
The light continues to shine.
For two hundred years, God’s name has been lifted in praise,
Parishioners have proclaimed the word of God in the valley.
Sharing the light of the world with family and friends, neighbors, and enemies.
The light continues to shine.
Even the challenges of our present-day pandemic and unrest across our nation
Cannot dim the light. The light continues to shine.
Each generation of believers must pick up the cross and share the light.
So the light continues to shine.
Lord Jesus, you brought the light into the world with your birth.
You walked among us and taught us how to share the light.
Many have tried to extinguish the light,
But the light continues to shine.
Liz Petry 2021
Inspired by our National Youth Poet Laureate: Amanda Gorman
For there is always light if only we're brave enough to see it: If only we're brave enough to be it.
Creator God, Thank You for loving us. How can we begin to give enough praise in response to your love? You sent your Son to save us. Praise God! Thank You. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen
Thought for the day: Today I will be bold in seeking Christ Jesus.
Be the light of Christ for the world! Pastor Liz
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