Epiphany – we’re still in it! – is the manifestation of the Savior to all people. “The true light, which gives light to everyone, was coming into the world” (John 1:9). But how does the light of Christ shine, now that He’s temporarily unseen? Pastor Bruce Keseman put it this way. You and I are like the moon. Just as the moon reflects the light of the Sun, you and I reflect the light of Christ in our lives.
“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven” (Matthew 5:14-16).
Light or darkness deep down in your heart? Vicar Joseph Pierson invited honest reflection in his sermon yesterday. We come to church, he said, to be forgiven, not to be excused. When you ask to be excused, you may be asking someone to overlook what you’ve done wrong. When you come to church and ask for forgiveness, you’re saying, “I have sinned against heaven and before you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son” (Luke 15:18-19). Which is it, “God, excuse me” or “forgive me”? Declining church attendance suggests it’s “excuse me” for many Americans, and they keep on with their sins. “The world did not know him” (John 1:10), but for you and me? Since “you call on him as Father who judges impartially according to each one’s deeds, conduct yourselves with fear throughout the time of your exile” (1 Peter 1:17).
“From the cross forever beameth / All Thy bright redeeming light” wrote Martin Franzmann (Lutheran Service Book, 578, 4). The Spirit brings Jesus’ light into the darkness of our hearts, a daily epiphany that shines brightly to people around you. The late Dr. Robert Preus told about a woman who said, “It’s nice that Jesus died, but He didn’t have to do that for me.” That’s excuse, darkness, but consciousness of your forgiveness this Monday morning has you reflecting Jesus’ light wherever you meet darkness. “O let Your Word, that saving light, / Shine forth undimmed into the night” (LSB, 585, 1).
Comments