Perhaps a strange post for the beginning of the new year. We have only just packed away the decorations, and taken down the lights -- or perhaps waiting until warmer weather for the latter. But in any case, Christmas is over. Whether it was joyful or mournful it's over and past. And if the retailers are starting in on next year, at least they are waiting a few months to tell us. At least, let's hope so.

The post refers to an epiphany hymn by Jim Strathdee "I Am the Light of the World."
When the song of the angels is stilled,
When the star in the sky is gone,
When the sages and the shepherds have found their way home,
The work of Christmas is begun.

It's pretty easy to get excited about Jesus at Christmas. God dwells among us, a miraculous birth, angels, shepherds and some visitors from the east bearing gifts. It's all so special. Then, the ordinary reappears. Here in Pennsylvania we've had snow, and more snow and cold, cold, cold. The kids are back in school, the adults are back at work, the days are still short and dark and we're looking for a little holiday.

The work of Christmas is begun?

If we see the shepherds as the poor and oppressed, and the angels as messengers of good tidings, then yes, this is the season for the work of Christmas. Because all that charitable giving and volunteering that was a huge part of December? That need is still with us. The work of Christmas begins.

If we see the magi as Christ-seekers, then yes, this is the season for the work of Christmas. Because there are a lot of people looking for Christ -- they probably wouldn't say they are searching for Christ, but they are looking for purpose, meaning, to make sense of the senseless. Who is going to point out the light? Send them in the right direction? The work of Christmas begins.

If we see the birth of Jesus as God coming to dwell among us, then this is the season for the work of Christmas. We're not as gifted in prayer as we like to think. The need to reflect, to call on God, to sense God within, to listen for God? If that's not a need in the dark days of winter, I don't know what is. The work of Christmas begins.

This season of Epiphany is a season for doing this work of Christmas. Service to others, pointing to Christ, seeking God's presence. Have a blessed Epiphany journey.

                                                                        Peace,
                                                                        Pastor Lisa