Epiphany Moments

In Christian tradition, the week after Christmas Day is the spiritual journey to the Epiphany, celebrated on January 6th. Christians honor the manifestation of God’s presence in the presentation of the Holy Infant to the world, represented by the visit of the Magi to Jesus, signifying the universal nature of Christ’s message and mission.  

The beginning of the new year, in the dark of January in Minnesota, holds a deep practice of Epiphany for me. It is a time to rest, re-evaluate, and distill what is most important to me down to its essence. As a Christian, I turn to Christ in prayer and meditation to learn what these things might be. I am naturally drawn to more time at home, more time with my family and pets, and the warmth of being inside in the frigid Minnesota January. By retreating into a hibernation of sorts, I can prepare my spirit for the coming months of cold and rest up for the coming new growth of spring.  

How can this time of Epiphany nourish our souls?  

Revelation and Enlightenment: “Epiphany moments” serve as revelations of God’s presence and truth. We may have a deeper, richer understanding of God’s presence in our lives and in the life of our community. We have an opportunity to look at the dark and frozen places in our lives and pause, looking for new perspectives, new actions, or even a rest from difficulties.  

Inclusivity and Universality: God’s grace is for everyone; it’s universal. God extends grace beyond the boundaries of nation or group. In evaluating where our time and attention goes, we can discern where we might be more inclusive, both in our inner circles and in our communities. There may be people connected to us who need someone to create space for them, or to offer acceptance and compassion.  

Personal Spiritual Awakening: Many Christians and many people of all faiths believe in “personal epiphanies,” a sudden understanding or revelation that deepens one’s faith and relationship with God. Perhaps there are new spiritual practices we want to explore, new subjects we want to learn more about, hobbies or classes we want to try. These can all nurture our spirituality and bring renewal to personal practice and belief.  

The time of Epiphany represents the transformative power of divine revelation. It offers us an opportunity to deepen our spirituality, experience awakening, and embrace the universal message of Divine Love and grace. It is a time to seek moments of revelation: there is love and grace in both extraordinary events, and in the everyday minutiae of life.  

For reflection: Where is God or the Divine showing up in my life? Who may need extra compassion right now (and it might be yourself!)  

For action: Explore a new spiritual activity or practice in 2024.