Our Scripture meditation is based on Isaiah 49:5-6, part of next week’s Old Testament Lesson.
[5] And now the LORD says, he who formed me from the womb to be his servant to bring Jacob back to him; and that Israel might be gathered to him – for I am honored in the eyes of the LORD, and my God has become my strength—[6] he says:
“It is too light a thing that you should be my servant to raise up the tribes of Jacob and to bring back the preserved of Israel; I will make you as a light for the nations, that my salvation may reach to the end of the earth.”
The two primary themes for Epiphany come together in this prophesy.
Epiphany is the season in the church year directly after Christmas. It starts January 6th and ends with the start of Lent. Based on a Greek word, Epiphany is primarily translated as “manifestation.” This is the first theme of Epiphany. Jesus, true God, became manifest as a human infant.
Verse 5 refers to this manifestation by noting Jesus’ human nature: “And now the LORD says, he who formed me from the womb to be his servant…”
The second theme comes from a more literal translation of Epiphany: “to shine forth.” Verse 6 is foundational to this theme: “I will make you as a light for the nations, that my salvation may reach to the end of the earth.”
The two themes work together in this way: God became manifest so that Jesus could redeem all people. The Good News is this manifestation shines forth as the hope of the nations.
Thanks be to God the Father for blessing us with His own Son, who become one of us to dwell among us.
Until next week, the Lord bless and guide.
Kevin Wilson 360 