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1 Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men[a] from the east came to Jerusalem, 2 saying, “Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we saw his star when it rose[b] and have come to worship him.” Matthew 2:1-2 Many people think of Epiphany as just a single day in the life of the church that follows 12 days after Christmas (hence the popular song “The Twelve Days of Christmas” is about the days AFTER Christmas, not about the “gift-buying” season). But, while there is a specific day on our calendar, January 6, for the FEAST Day, Epiphany is an entire SEASON of the church year. The season begins with evening prayer on January 5 and ends (February 17, 2026) the Tuesday (Shrove Tuesday) before Ash Wednesday. The Feast of the Transfiguration of Our Lord (February 15, 2026) is the Last Sunday after Epiphany. During Epiphany, we worship Jesus, who has given all mankind access to God through Himself. The word “Epiphany” comes from Greek roots that mean "to show, to display" (phainein) and "on, to" (epi-) . An epiphany is thus a time when something is shown, displayed, or manifested to an audience. We often see this pictured only as the magi coming to see the baby Jesus (see Matthew 2) . The season, however, is much more than that – it is the celebration of the manifestation of God in human form, being displayed to ALL nations – and so, the nations come… During this season, we have the events of Jesus’ baptism and His Transfiguration, both times when God spoke from above “This is My Son…”. Of note is that these events were out in the open and public places – and not in the Temple at Jerusalem. During this Season of Epiphany, we rejoice that Jesus came for – and presented to – ALL people. And so, it is our task to share that Good News with those around us. This year, let’s not keep Epiphany to ourselves, but make it a point to be SHARING the Love and Grace of Christ as we invite others to join the family of God through knowing Jesus. Epiphany Blessings in Christ, Pastor Jim Rev. James Kirschenmann, Pastor Zion Lutheran Church

In uncertain times, we all search for hope. We look to our circumstances, our abilities, or our plans. But the apostle Paul points us to a different source. In Romans 15:4, Paul reminds us that "whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope." God's Word isn't just ancient history—it's His living promise to us today. Every page of Scripture points to Jesus Christ, who came to fulfill God's promises and bring salvation to all people. Paul explains that Christ welcomes both Jews and Gentiles so that together we might "glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ" (Romans 15:6-7) . This unity in Christ demonstrates God's faithfulness to His promises. He doesn't abandon His people; He includes us in His family through faith. Then comes Paul's powerful benediction: "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope" (Romans 15:13). Notice who gives hope: the God of hope Himself. Notice how: through the Holy Spirit's power as we trust in Christ. Notice the result: we overflow with hope, joy, and peace. This isn't wishful thinking or positive attitude. This is rock-solid confidence in God's promises fulfilled in Jesus—His death for our sins, His resurrection for our justification. When Christ rose from the dead, He guaranteed our future. Today, whatever challenges you face, receive this gift: hope that overflows, given by God Himself through faith in Jesus Christ. Pastor Jim Pastor Jim Kirschenmann