February

We are now in the Epiphany season, which this year will last longer than Lent (six weeks) or Easter (seven weeks) Epiphany is either long (up to nine weeks) or short (as little as four weeks) depending when Easter falls. The church calendar recognizes the season of Epiphany from January 6 until the last Sunday before Ash Wednesday, which is celebrated as the Transfiguration of our Lord.  In the season of Epiphany Jesus shows, reveals, manifests His glory through His words and actions. By His words, He reveals a message of hope and salvation. By His deeds, He shows His compassion and love.

The gospel stories of this season describe various events that manifest the divinity of Jesus. The coming of the Magi is celebrated on the Epiphany. The Baptism of our Lord is observed on the Sunday after Epiphany. The gospels for the other Sundays of the Epiphany season describe the wedding at Cana, the calling of the disciples, and various miracles and teachings of Jesus. The Last Sunday after the Epiphany is always devoted to the Transfiguration. Jesus' identity as the Son of God is dramatically revealed in the Transfiguration gospel, as well as the gospel of the baptism of Christ.

Observing Jesus’ works and words call us to respond in faith, which says, “You are the Christ, the Son of God.” Upon receiving this gift of faith we now respond in that same saving faith by sharing with others the hope that we have in Christ. Faith receives and then distributes. Do not keep this message to yourself. Share it with others. Let them in. Invite them. Tell everyone what He has done.

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