Epiphany: When God is Revealed
Each year on January 6, Christians around the world mark Epiphany -- a day whose meaning is both ancient and relevant. The word epiphany comes from the Greek epiphaneia, meaning appearance, manifestation, or revealing. In the ancient world, the term was used to describe the sudden appearance of a god or the unveiling of a hidden reality. When the early church adopted the word, it did so with conviction: in Jesus Christ, God has been revealed.
Epiphany proclaims that God's light did not remain private or contained. Instead God stepped into history, into human flesh, and made that presence known.
Historically, Epiphany is one of the oldest Christian festivals, predating even the formal celebration of Christmas in some parts of the church. In the Eastern Christian tradition, Epiphany originally emphasized Jesus’ baptism in the Jordan River -- when heaven opened, the Spirit descended, and a voice declared, “You are my Son.” In that moment, Christ’s identity was publicly revealed.
In the Western church, Epiphany became closely associated with the visit of the Magi -- wise travelers from outside Israel who followed a star to Bethlehem. Their journey, described in Matthew’s Gospel, was understood as a sign that Jesus was revealed not only to Israel, but to all nations. From this perspective, Epiphany celebrates Christ as light for all people -- a Savior whose reach extends beyond familiar borders.
Over time, Epiphany came to hold several layers of meaning at once. Some Christians emphasize the Magi and the widening of God’s grace. Others focus on Jesus’ baptism and the revelation of the Trinity. Still others include Jesus’ first miracle at Cana, where water became wine and his glory was disclosed in an unexpected place. These interpretations are not in competition; together, they form a tapestry of revelation. Epiphany reminds us that God keeps showing up again and again in different ways to different people.
Across the centuries, cultures have marked Epiphany with varied practices. In parts of Europe and Latin America, the day is known as Three Kings Day and includes processions, feasts, and gifts. In many churches, worship includes the lighting of candles, the singing of carols about light, the retelling of the Magi’s long journey, and chalk blessings over doorways marking homes as places of Christ’s presence. Each Epiphany practice carries the same message: God is not hidden from the world.
For Christians today, Epiphany arrives this week as more than just a commemoration. It is an invitation.
Epiphany asks where God might be revealing Himself now -- outside expected places, through unfamiliar people, or along paths that require patience and trust. Like the Magi, Epiphany people are learners, watchers, travelers. They are willing to move when light appears, even if the journey is long and the destination unclear.
As this season begins, Epiphany offers a gentle but persistent call: Pay attention. Watch for light. Follow where God reveals Himself -- not only in sanctuaries and Scriptures, but in conversations and ordinary days. The same God who once placed a star in the sky still delights in being found. And the journey, as it turns out, is part of the gift.