By Annie Karto

If ever there were a time for rising up and for light for the New Year, it is now!

In today’s readings for the Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord, the prophet Isaiah encourages us to rise and embrace the light. The dictionary translation of “epiphany” is a moment when you feel that you understand or suddenly become conscious of something.

Many of us have had those moments when God’s light breaks through our dullness of mind or heart. I don’t know about you, but it feels like I have been treading through some mud this past year, and I can barely see in front of me.

I am totally ready for an “epiphany” moment! 

“Rise Up in splendor, Jerusalem! Your light has come, the glory of the Lord shines upon you. See, darkness covers the earth and thick clouds cover the peoples; but upon you the Lord shines, and over you appears his glory.” ~ Isaiah 60:1-2

“Epiphany”! In just a few short sentences of scripture, I now see that no matter what darkness you and I experience, the Lord will be our light forever!

“You shall call your walls “Salvation” and your gates “Praise.” No longer shall the sun be your light by day, Nor the brightness of the moon shine upon you at night; The Lord shall be your light forever, your God shall be your glory. No longer shall your sun go down, or your moon withdraw, For the Lord will be your light forever, and the days of your mourning shall be at an end.” Isaiah 60: 18-20

This new year may we hasten to continue to seek Him, follow Him, and adore Him! Let us bring him the gold of our inner sanctuary, the love, and devotion we nurture within. Let us bring Him the pure frankincense of prayer, the only incense permitted at the altar, Exodus 30:35, rising up from our hearts. 

Finally, let us offer him the myrrh of our darkness, our suffering, our waiting. “For the Lord will be our Light forever!”

Prayer

Lord, when times are dark and the future uncertain, may I believe in your promise that You will be my light forever. Amen

Call to Action

Pray that the Lord reveal to you someone who is experiencing darkness in their lives. Make it a point to reach out to that person in the new year.