Epiphany (Observed): Old Testament, Isaiah 60:1-6                            

Isaiah 60:1-6

Think of all the hub-bub that grabs our attention when there is a full solar eclipse. It happened just a while back and people took breaks from their work, school classes were given recess and all manner of attention was given to the fleeting changes in the heavens above and on the earth below. All for a momentary shift in the normal pitch of light and dark as we perceive it.

But in our Old Testament lesson this week, we hear the great prophet Isaiah declare that a light is coming that will truly change the world. He preps us for it and then the announcement comes thus: “Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD has risen upon you. For behold, darkness shall cover the earth, and thick darkness the peoples; but the LORD will arise upon you, and his glory will be seen upon you” (Isaiah 60:1-2).

The announcement of the coming Light, and its fulfillment in the first Advent of Israel’s Messiah are potent truths. Truths that will, and now since, have changed the course of human history. And note please that the Light was needed. For the world into which that Light first shone was dark. And it is dark today. The Light invades the human heart and gives its most necessary illumination to areas that apart from God’s direct action would only remain in darkness.

Whereas our temporary eclipses are exciting but not to be looked at with the naked eye, may I encourage you with eyes wide open and hearts ready to receive, to gaze into the Light. And keep fixed your gaze.. Far from blinding the eyes, they will see as they have never seen before.

“Lift up your eyes all around, and see…” (Isaiah 60:4a). Don’t miss the invitation.