On Wednesday, January 8th we gathered for the Burning of the Greens close to the entrance to Peace Chapel. People brought their Christmas trees from home and we had a good ole fashion bonfire. The feast of Epiphany is a celebration that Jesus is the Light of the world and that He has come to save us all–Jew and Gentile. The light of the flame reminds us that the light of Jesus always wins.
The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.
John 1:5
We gathered on this night to proclaim, again, the gift of Light that Jesus brings to all of us. The story of the Magi’s visit to Bethlehem was read and we were reminded of the gifts. The gift of gold recognized the royal Christ Child. Frankincense, an accoutrement of worship, signifies that this Child has the DNA of the Almighty in Him. The somber gift of Myrrh helps us to see that the manger is also an altar–for this Child came to be the atoning sacrifice for all.
May these images call to mind the Light of Christ in your life and challenge you to reflect His light every where you go.