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January 4, 2019

Following the Light, Being the Light

J. Marshall Jenkins   |   Read Ephesians 3:1-4

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Lectionary Week
January 1–6, 2019
Scripture Overview

As we approach Epiphany Sunday, we think of the coming of God into the world as the coming of a brilliant light—a light that shines into dark corners, a light that shines on people who dwell in darkness. The light of God brings with it the power of restoration to a people in exile. It shines transforming power on forgotten ones who will now arise and shine. God’s presence brings light and well-being. At this time of year, we may desire God’s light to shine upon us.

Questions and Suggestions for Reflection

Read Matthew 25:31-46. Where do you see darkness in your community? How can you shine Christ’s light?
Read Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14. Consider the differences between fairness, justice, and mercy. Who around you suffers when fairness wears the cloak of justice? How can you turn the situation toward mercy?
Read Ephesians 3:1-12. Was there a time when you thought the gospel was not for you? What has changed?
Read Matthew 2:1-12. We can decipher mystery through light, mercy, witness, and love. How is Christ revealed to you this Epiphany?

Respond by posting a prayer.

Ephesians 3:1-4

1 This is why I, Paul, am a prisoner of Christ for you Gentiles. 2 You’ve heard, of course, about the responsibility to distribute God’s grace, which God gave to me for you, right? 3 God showed me his secret plan in a revelation, as I mentioned briefly before ( 4 when you read this, you’ll understand my insight into the secret plan about Christ).

Unless otherwise indicated, scripture quotations are from the Common English Bible. Copyright © 2011 Common English Bible. Used by permission.

Paul argues that creation should suffice to reveal the Creator and prompt devotion. But the human heart’s impatience for heavenly blessings leads us to worship idols and pursue cheap substitutes. In the frenzy, we miss the point of nature’s sermon.

Paul never forgets how God wakes him. As Paul travels...

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Lord, when you shake up our lives, help us to discern your love at work and lead us to tell about it. Amen.


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