EPIPHANY – “an illuminating discovery” according to one definition.
The Magi were gentiles, foreigners – the opposite end of society, that came to worship the newborn king.
They came to know the blessings of being part of God’s love for humanity and creation as a whole.
Jesus is the Saviour of all people not just for those in the church.
Interpretation – people interpret the same things in different ways.
Our brains can read all the words but our hearts need to also be involved in interpretation and action.
Christmas – the birth of Jesus was a promised fulfillment for the world.
Simeon’s promise was fulfilled when he was able to name ‘Jesus’.
Giving birth is an ordinary process for women all over the world – maybe for some it is more vulnerable and risky.
Through the birth of this baby the world would be turned on its head,
God enters irrevocably and extraordinarily into human history to show the way of God in the world. The ‘Good News’ is that God continues to be with us in our joys and struggles.
John the Baptist may seem to be an odd character to be the one pointing to Jesus as ‘The Light’.
He came to tell people to pay attention and recognise who Jesus was, tell the story of the coming Messiah and to worn them to be ready!
Our mission is also John’s mission – in preparing for Christmas – ‘What would John do?’
Mark’s Gospel makes no mention of a baby in a manger, shepherds or angels.
In Mark we are introduced to the grown up, ready to act Jesus.
Be revitalized by knowing this Jesus, attuned to our darkness of despair, disbelief and aching loneliness that affects many humans today. This is where we find the ‘Gold’ without the ‘Glitter’.
Despite the ‘shaking’ at times we have the ability to look forward into the future with hope.
The church needs to be a ‘generator’ of hope and reflect on values that last forever.
Not to build little kingdoms, but a sense of hope in Christ that will last for ever.
Jesus is not not out for what he can get from being a King, he is here to give.
What a paradox: a leader here for the people! A leader who wants to bring truth to the fore.
There is a difference between making a deal with God and making a vow to God. Hannah was an inspiration recognizing that whatever happens will be of God and therefore belongs to God. Even Godly people experience times of deep anguish and trouble.
To be active agents of change we can only lead others as far as we ourselves have gone. We have no ability to affirm or communicate to another person that they are good or special until we know it strongly ourselves.
Ruth – a story of one woman’s love, friendship, devotion, courage and faith.
God provides people to share parts of our lives with – God does not want us to journey alone.
