Shining the Light of the Christ to the Nations

Epiphany reminds us that Jesus came as a light to the nations, bringing salvation for all people and calling us to share the Gospel.

“It is too light a thing … to raise up the tribes of Jacob and to bring back the preserved of Israel; I will make you as a light for the nations, that my salvation may reach to the end of the earth.”—Isaiah 49:6

Today is the day Christians throughout the centuries have celebrated Epiphany. Along with Christmas and Easter, this was one of the first three festival days in the church. It was a day set aside to celebrate the coming of the wise men to bring gifts to the baby Jesus.

Why honor these magi? Because they were the first Gentiles to honor Jesus.

The word epiphany means to make known or reveal. The appearance of the magi revealed that Jesus had come to be the Savior of people in all nations. This meant salvation was for everyone, regardless of their race or background!

Epiphany is a day to focus on reaching the world with the Gospel. Isaiah prophesied that Jesus would be “a light for the nations” so that “salvation may reach to the end of the earth.”

Today, the light still shines, but it’s estimated that more than two billion people have not heard the name of Jesus even once!

Think about people you know who need salvation: neighbors, coworkers, family members, politicians, movie stars, recording artists, and many others. Ask God to show you what you can do to help reach them with the Gospel.

Pray for people He brings to your mind and into your life. Tell them about Jesus. Sow financial seeds to support the work of evangelism. People everywhere need to hear the Good News.

Reflection Question: Who in your life needs to see the light of Christ today?