Epiphany Lights

I love hearing from folks when they receive their Whale Spouts newsletter. It means a lot to make a real connection when this electronic media can sometimes feel so disconnected. A few years back, I received an especially large number of emails in response to a reflection I shared about leaving "Epiphany Lights" up all the way until Ash Wednesday. So as we approach this celebration of Epiphany on January 6, I thought I would share these reflections again in hopes that this may be just what you need to hear in this season of light...

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May this Epiphany season of the sacred star open your eyes to see God's "star-light" shining in you and all those you meet. Many years ago the magi were called to travel through unknown lands in search of the sacred star. Like the magi of old, we too are called out of our comfort zone in search of God's light in our world today. 

I believe that this light-filled message of Epiphany is too important for just a single day. Although not “liturgically correct,” I like to consider the time all the way from January 6 to Ash Wednesday as the season of Epiphany when we remember that God’s light shines in the darkness.  

Because of this, I leave my Christmas/Epiphany lights up all the way to Lent (yes, you read that correctly!). On Ash Wednesday, the bright lights come down and purple Lenten light bulbs go into the fixtures at all our doors. My gracious neighbors are familiar with my odd ways and haven’t yet run me out of the neighborhood! 

Why do I go through this liturgical lighting ritual? Because in the middle of a cold and dark winter, I need a little extra light. I want to claim and proclaim the message of Epiphany – that the bright light of a star guided people to an encounter with Christ, that each and every one of us has a gift to offer the baby Jesus, and that light overcomes darkness. 

I realize my winter lights are a bit counter-cultural, but that’s okay with me. Jesus was a little counter-cultural himself in the way he welcomed the outcast, dined with sinners, and taught us to love neighbors and enemies alike.

So, a blessed season of Epiphany to you all! May the light of Christ shine brightly in your life today and always.