Isaiah 60:1
Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the Lord is risen upon thee. Isaiah 60:1
Epiphany symbolizes the coming of light into the world. It is traditionally observed as the time of the arrival at JesusÂ’ manger by the Magi or Wise Men from the east. Therefore it not only reminds of the star which heralded his arrival, but also portrays that Jesus is the light of the world. It falls at the end of the Christmas Season.
Today as we close this book of Reflections, this special Watchword for Epiphany reminds us that Jesus is the light of the world and that this light has come into the world. Light has the distinct and characteristic effect of dispelling darkness and showing the way. Therefore, the message in this text is an assurance that help is here.
Epiphany symbolizes the coming of light into the world. It is traditionally observed as the time of the arrival at JesusÂ’ manger by the Magi or Wise Men from the east. Therefore it not only reminds of the star which heralded his arrival, but also portrays that Jesus is the light of the world. It falls at the end of the Christmas Season.
Today as we close this book of Reflections, this special Watchword for Epiphany reminds us that Jesus is the light of the world and that this light has come into the world. Light has the distinct and characteristic effect of dispelling darkness and showing the way. Therefore, the message in this text is an assurance that help is here.
Amidst the gloom of recession, lay-offs and cut-backs, there comes this message of hope to those who would believe it: ‘Arise, shine; for your light has come’. So shake off your gloom. Jesus is here and his glory will surround you. Rejoice with the song-writer, singing:
“God is here, He is here,
To break the yoke and lift the heavy burden;
He is here, He is here,
To heal the hopeless heart and bless the broken.
Come and lay down the burdens you have carried
… for God is here.”
Prayer:
“O come, thou dayspring, come and cheer
Our spirits by thine advent here;
Disperse the gloomy clouds of night,Â’
And deathÂ’s dark shadows put to flight.
Rejoice! Rejoice! Immanuel
Shall come to thee O Israel.” Amen.
(Hymn 129 v. 3)
“God is here, He is here,
To break the yoke and lift the heavy burden;
He is here, He is here,
To heal the hopeless heart and bless the broken.
Come and lay down the burdens you have carried
… for God is here.”
Prayer:
“O come, thou dayspring, come and cheer
Our spirits by thine advent here;
Disperse the gloomy clouds of night,Â’
And deathÂ’s dark shadows put to flight.
Rejoice! Rejoice! Immanuel
Shall come to thee O Israel.” Amen.
(Hymn 129 v. 3)
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