12-31-24

ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS
​December 31, 2024
We don’t have as much of the birth story in Matthew’s Gospel, but it’s where we find the Epiphany story. Without Matthew, we wouldn’t know anything about the star that led the wise men from the east. Yet before we delve into the significance of Epiphany, let us pause to acknowledge that we are currently immersed in the season of Christmas. In fact, we are currently celebrating the twelve days of Christmas. It is probably impossible to find any radio station playing a Christmas carol right now, but despite what culture might say, it is finally Christmas for Christianity. The 12 Days of Christmas, as I remind folks every year, are the 12 days between Christmas and Epiphany (the arrival of the magi/wise men). In these 12 days, we start to watch the magi make their move from the East. Some have suggested the journey took two years, though we condense it to the 12 days. My family has often had our nativity scene with the magi on the other side of the room. We slowly move the three wise men toward the holy family as we move through the 12 days. This coming Sunday is Epiphany Sunday, our One Service Sunday with a Camel Walk from Meyer Park at 10:00am, but until then, keep the Christmas celebrations going.

​Lead me, Gracious God, as I embark on this journey. May I meet your gift and honor him with my own gifts. Amen.