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

Living Thanks with a New Vision!

Help in times of trouble.

“I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5) As we look toward the coming Back To Church Sunday, this year’s theme is “Life is Better Together.” The image of the vine with its branches comes to mind. And with that, we consider what it means in our lives … When Jesus explained that He is the vine, he let us know that we should always stay connected to Him. The reason? That’s where we receive all that we need for true life. And the next part is also true – something we tend to ignore – our task as branches. First, we are connected to Christ. Then we are connected to each other. Next, we are to be reaching out – connecting – with those around us. In this way, we can draw others into a relationship with Jesus, grafting them into the vine. Is there someone you have met that could use a little more Jesus in their lives? Then invite them – and more than that – welcome them to join in a Life Group. Or simply develop the relationship over a meal. Do not be afraid to share Jesus! However you begin, be “Connected and Connecting” as you go through this season. And remember… Life is Better Together! May you continue in making disciples in Christ, Pastor Jim Rev. James Kirschenmann, MDiv MBA Zion Lutheran Church - Vassar

Pastor Jim Pastor Jim Kirschenmann

Disciples, great commission, story, preaching

Planted in God

After reading the title above for the MAY newsletter, some of you are probably thinking that Pastor is more than one egg short of a complete basket! After all, Easter was in April, right?! Then again, some of you (who were at the Easter Sunday service) are beginning to realize that Easter is continuing and is certainly MORE than just one day of the year. And that is really the point of this month’s newsletter – EASTER is, indeed, still part of our daily lives. The Resurrection of Jesus Christ that we celebrate is more than can be contained in a single morning – it is all year long, every year. We can see it if we look for it. And we can embody it if we truly believe it. Among the congregational activities this month, you will have many opportunities to fulfill your own expression of your resurrected life in Christ, and you are encouraged to share that with others. Are you allowing your life to interrupted by God? Remember that we heard Dietrich Bonhoeffer write, “God will be constantly crossing our paths and canceling our plans by sending us people with claims and petitions.” (Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Life Together [San Francisco: Harper, 1954], 99). St. Peter says, “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have” (1 Peter 3:15). So, are you giving everyone a reason to ask? Consider how you might go about doing that in your daily life, and then share the things that have worked for you with your fellow members, so we can all learn new ways to continue to show that Easter [still] Matters in our daily lives. Blessings in the Risen Christ, Pastor Jim Pastor Jim Kirschenmann