Parenting Points
As the calendar turns to January, Christians worldwide celebrate Epiphany, a festival that marks the manifestation of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles. Traditionally observed on January 6, Epiphany is a time of reflection and rejoicing as we commemorate the visit of the wise men to the baby Jesus, signifying the revelation of Christ’s light to the world.
Epiphany symbolizes the extension of God’s salvation to the Gentiles, emphasizing the truth seen throughout the Scriptures that Jesus came not only for a particular group but for all people. Guided by a star, the wise men from the East journeyed to find the newborn King. The star led them to Bethlehem, where they encountered the child Jesus and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Epiphany allows our families to reflect on the story of the wise men and the guiding light of the star, pointing them to Jesus. In this season, your family can use the story of the wise men to reflect how we can also be lights pointing people to Jesus. Here are four ideas.
1. Star Gazing. Spend an evening stargazing with your family. Reflect on the star that guided the wise men and discuss how Christ’s light guides your lives.
2. Gift of Light. Light candles as a family, symbolizing the light of Christ. Discuss how this light dispels darkness and represents the presence of Jesus in your home.
3. Gifts of Service: Encourage family members to give the gift of service. Discuss ways you can extend kindness and help to others, mirroring the generosity of the wise men.
4. Sharing the Light. Brainstorm some people you know who do not yet have a relationship with Jesus. Spend some time praying for an opportunity for you to point your light on Jesus by sharing about Him.
Epiphany not only looks back at the historical event but also invites us to look forward. It prompts us to consider how we, like the wise men, can seek and recognize the presence of Christ in our lives in the coming year and share the light of Jesus with others. As we begin a new year, Epiphany reminds us that the light of Christ continues to guide us. The wise men’s journey reminds us of the joy of discovering and worshiping the Savior. We are also reminded how God calls us to be the light pointing all peoples from all places to the hope we have in Jesus.
-Dr. Ben Birdsong
Missions Minister at Christ Church Birmingham
Writer and Speaker
