- an appearance or manifestation especially of a divine being
- : a usually sudden manifestation or perception of the essential nature or meaning of something
- an intuitive grasp of reality through something (such as an event) usually simple and striking
- an illuminating discovery, realization, or disclosure
- : a revealing scene or moment
Epiphany: manifestation of a divine being
At the birth of Jesus, an epiphany happened. Not only for The Magi, who recognized the divinity of the star, the birth, and the baby, but for others as well. This would be an illuminating discovery that is still shedding light on the world today.
Let’s look at Luke 2:25-35;
“Now there was a man in Jerusalem called Simeon, who was righteous and devout. He was waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was on him. 26 It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not die before he had seen the Lord’s Messiah. 27 Moved by the Spirit, he went into the temple courts. When the parents brought in the child Jesus to do for him what the custom of the Law required, 28 Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying:
29 “Sovereign Lord, as you have promised,
you may now dismiss[d] your servant in peace.
30 For my eyes have seen your salvation,
31 which you have prepared in the sight of all nations:
32 a light for revelation to the Gentiles,
and the glory of your people Israel.”
33 The child’s father and mother marveled at what was said about him. 34 Then Simeon blessed them and said to Mary, his mother: “This child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against, 35 so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your own soul too.”
Epiphany, an illuminating discovery, manifestation of a divine being and an intuitive grasp of reality.
Simeon saw the child and had an epiphany. At the same time, scripture was fulfilled and God answered an old man’s prayer. With God, all things are possible!
But, the wise men and Simeon have some things in common. They were both looking for the Messiah, the consolation or comfort of Israel. They were seeking. They recognized Christ, even as a baby. When they saw Him, they had their epiphany moment. Their speculations were confirmed within them. And, they praised God! That is all that is required of us. Praise! Praise for the comfort and the revelation. Praise for the light in the dark world. Praise for the revealing of the divinity of God in us!
As we move forward, we will read more stories of people having their own epiphany moment. But the common denominator is they were all looking. Are you looking for Christ? Are you actively seeking a relationship with Him? Do you believe God is Immanuel, God with us and in us? Jesus fills in all the gaps. When God reveals Christ in you, epiphany happens. Our only response is to praise Him!
God of all there is, reveal in us Christ Jesus, our Messiah. Put a desire in our hearts to seek You daily. Guide us to our epiphany moment. Help us to recognize Christ in us and others so that we may be ever changed by this great revelation. We praise You Lord! We praise you! In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
P.S. Don’t miss the YouTube below. Use it as your opportunity to praise Him! If you can’t see it, open this message in your browser. Leave me a comment below because I always love hearing from you. Forward this message to a friend and post on Facebook. Tag me in it. Until next time, look for Christ. He is here! -M
