Dear Friends in Christ,
Greetings in this season of Epiphany. The word epiphany means manifestation or appearing. The three traditional manifestations of this season are found in the traditional epiphany hymn “Songs of thankfulness and praise, Jesus, Lord to thee, we raise.” (#135, Hymnal 1982) They are the star that led the magi to the manger in Bethlehem, Jesus’ baptism by John in the River Jordan, and Jesus’ first miracle at the wedding in Cana of Galilee.
Our lesson for this first Sunday of Epiphany is Luke’s telling of the baptism of Jesus. So for Bible Study this week, begin by reading Luke 3-22-23. What stands out for you in this story?
Now read Mark 1:9-11. What do you notice that is different between these two tellings? Is there something Luke emphasizes in particular?
Now read Matthew 3:13-17. What stands out for you in Matthew’s account?
Finally, conclude your study with a prayer of thanksgiving for your baptism, your parents, sponsors, and the person who administered that sacrament. Remember that in baptism you are “sealed by the Spirit and marked as Christ’s own forever.”
Until next week.
Yours in Christ,
The Rt. Rev. Steven A. Miller
Bishop
