The Epiphany of our Lord — Ephesians 3:1-12; Matthew 2:1-12

“And so here I am, preaching and writing about things that are way over my head, the inexhaustible riches and generosity of Christ. Through Christians like yourselves gathered in churches, this extraordinary plan of God is becoming known and talked about even among the angels!” (Ephesians 3:8,10, TM)

There are some of us Christians who are reluctant to talk to others outside of our church about Jesus, and sometimes even reluctant to talk to each other about Him! Paul wasn’t reluctant at all, and apparently the people of the churches of Ephesus weren’t either! God had acted decisively by coming to be with all people, not just the Jewish people, in Jesus, and through Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection, offering all people the gift of a relationship with Himself. There are no strings attached to this gift. The acceptance of it is life-transforming. How it all works is a mystery and beyond logic. Human words cannot sufficiently express all that God has done and is doing for us in Christ. Yet, like St. Paul, we are to talk anyway. We are not to keep this great news to ourselves, for it is for all people.

Loving, mysterious, and generous God: Give us the words and understanding of the heart we need to share the good news of your freely-given relationship with Yourself through Christ with others. In Jesus’ name: Amen.

– Father Larry Parrish, St. Thomas Episcopal Church, Falls City