5th January 2026
Epiphany
When they saw that the star had stopped, they were overwhelmed with joy. On entering the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they knelt down and paid him homage. Then, opening their treasure chests, they offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. And having been warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they left for their own country by another road.
Matthew 2:10-12 (NRSVUE)
As the night sky glistens with the brilliance of countless stars, we are drawn to the story of the magi, following a star to worship the Light of the World. The opening 12 verses of Matthew chapter 2 recount their pilgrimage, their hearts set on finding the source of this celestial light, a light that leads to the very presence of God. In the midst of simplicity, in the heart of the humblest abode, they find the King of Kings, the one they had travelled so far to worship.
Just as the Magi brought their gifts to the Christ child, we, too, offer the gift of our worship, our adoration, and our devotion. As we embark on this journey of Epiphany, let us remember that the Light we seek is not confined to a single location or a single group of people, but shines forth for all to see and bask in the warmth.
Matthew’s account reminds us that when we seek the Light with open hearts, we, too, will find ourselves in the presence of God, and when we are there, let us offer ourselves to Jesus as the magi did, in awe and reverence before the One who is the true Light of the world.
Prayer
Loving Father, as we journey through this season of Epiphany, may the Light of Christ continue to lead us, illuminating our path and revealing the boundless love of our Saviour. In Jesus’s name, Amen.
This study is an amended transcript of an equipping video to empower and inspire Grace Communion International congregations around the world to live and share the gospel. It has been produced by the Home Office Team in Charlotte, NC, USA, and was first published in the 1 December 2023 edition of the Equipper publication.
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