The days are getting longer, now that we are in January. The daily increase of light is imperceptible, but we know that it is happening. Thus, it is that during this time, the church celebrates Epiphany, the promise that our Savior Jesus Christ, the true light, enlightens the whole world (John 1:9). The Apostle John wrote, “This is the message we have heard from him and proclaim to you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. If we say we have fellowship with him while we walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth. But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin” (1 John 1:5–7 ESV).

God is light. And in Him there is no darkness. In the beginning, God spoke light into existence and separated light and darkness. The Scriptures employ darkness and light as a leitmotif for sin and salvation, for death and life. During Epiphany, the church rejoices that her Lord has come to bring light to the darkness, that our Savior Jesus, who is the light and the life of all mankind (John 1:4) died and rose to bring light into the darkness of this world, to forgive sins and to conquer death. I encourage each of you to bask in the light of God’s love during this Epiphany season. Spend time in God’s Word (Psalm 119:105), repent of your sins and rejoice in God’s forgiveness in Christ (1 John 1:8–9). Embrace the many opportunities the Lord provides you to shine the light of Christ into this world, carrying with you the Gospel of our Lord Jesus.

The Epiphany season ends with the Transfiguration, when the light of God’s glory illuminated Jesus. Jesus’ face shone like the sun, His clothing gleamed brightly, and the Father announced Him as His beloved Son. And from there, He went to the cross. So also, we journey from Epiphany to Lent. The light of Christ shines from the cross through the empty tomb and even into the eternal city, where the Lamb is its lamp and light (Rev. 21:23).

You may not be able to perceive it, but God’s light is shining brighter each day as we await our Lord’s return. Come quickly, Lord Jesus!

In Christ’s love — and light,

Dr. Thomas J. Egger
President