Epiphany & Baptism of the Lord: Following the Magi and Starting Ordinary Time

At the end of the 12 days of Christmas the Church celebrates two important feasts - Epiphany and the Baptism of the Lord. These two events are deeply connected and help us to understand the mission and identity of Jesus Christ.

Epiphany

Epiphany, celebrated on January 6th, commemorates the visit of the Magi (also known as the Three Wise Men or Three Kings) to the infant Jesus. This feast reveals that Jesus came for all people, not just the Jewish people. The Magi, who were gentiles, recognized Jesus as the long-awaited Messiah and came to worship him. Their three gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh symbolize Jesus' identity as king, priest, and sacrifice.

Many families have traditions around Epiphany, such as blessing their homes, eating a special "King's Cake," and in some cultures; it is on this day that children receive their Christmas gifts. Some families will take down Christmas decorations on this day (and some will keep them up until Candlemas)

It can also be a fun tradition to celebrate the night before Epiphany, called Twelfth Night. You may recognize the name from the famous Shakespearian play. If you have older children, it might be a good evening to watch the play. It was traditionally a feast of reversals - Peasants and the nobility would switch places and act silly. As a family, it may be fun to have parents and kids reverse (to an extent, of course) or to have a silly picnic dinner on the floor.

Baptism Of Our Lord

On the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord, which is celebrated the Sunday after Epiphany, we remember when Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist in the Jordan River. This event was a pivotal moment in Jesus' life, as it marked the beginning of his public ministry and revealed his identity as the beloved Son of God. When Jesus was baptized, the heavens opened, the Spirit descended upon him, and the Father's voice proclaimed, "This is my beloved Son." This sacred event was an epiphany, a revelation, of the Triune God - The Holy Spirit descending like a Dove, and the voice of God the Father claiming Jesus as His Son. The Baptism of Our Lord is also a powerful foretaste of Christian baptism by which all people, even unto the end of the earth, become adopted sons and daughters of God.

Remembering our baptisms can be a special part of this post-Christmas time. Families can come together for a special meal all lighting their baptismal candles and saying the creed together. It is also a wonderful time to share photos of baptisms and tell stories. Young children may learn about baptism by 'baptizing' baby dolls with pretend water. (Our wooden Baptism set is great for this!)

Revelations and Jesus love for ALL people

Both Epiphany and The Baptism Of Our Lord reveal truths of who Jesus is and also speak to the universality of Jesus' salvation through the Incarnation and Crucifixion and Resurrection. After the celebration of these two pivotal feasts we enter into a period of the church year called 'Ordinary Time'. Beginning with reflection on our own baptisms we can use this time to contemplate Jesus and come to know him more fully.

However you celebrate may you and your family be blessed in the continued assurance of membership in Christ's family and the perpetual revelation of Jesus in our lives as we grow to know him more.