“Arise, Shine for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you,” Isaiah 60:1.

The returning Jewish exiles were tempted to despair in all the trouble they faced, returning to the homeland of which their grandparents spoke wistfully. Their contemporary reality was far from wistful. The story of the Jewish exiles “returning” to a new home reminded Matthew of Jesus being taken into exile in Egypt after a visit from “wise men” and then being brought back by his parents when it was safe to return.

Epiphany is an annual reminder that God’s brightest, most merciful presence is particularly revealed in the most difficult moments of our lives (being sent into and returning from exile). This year the season of Epiphany is shorter, with Ash Wednesday on February 18. As the light slowly returns with the lengthening days, may our faith likewise be refreshingly grounded in God’s mercy for the difficult seasons of our lives.

Peace and healing be with you, Pastor Roy.