We conclude this series taking us through the weeks of Advent and Christmastide with the Feast of Epiphany (January 6). Bobby Gross helps us reflect the abundance of life on offer in Christ, celebrated by this feast. After savoring the Feast of the Nativity for twelve days (not without some bitter flavors—honoring Stephen, the first martyr on Dec 26, remembering the slaughtered Holy Innocents on Dec 28, perhaps with fresh laments for the children of Gaza and their wailing mothers, along with the cries of bereft … [Read more...] about Seeing: The Feast of Abundance
Epiphany
Science Corner: Post Astrum, Ergo Propter Astrum?
As the church calendar transitions to Epiphany and we remember the journey of the Magi, it is hard to ignore the contemporary parallels as many of our learned men and women find themselves captivated by one particular star. This time around, the fuss is over Betelgeuse, one of the shoulders in the constellation Orion and one of the brightest stars in the night sky. Betelgeuse is a variable star, meaning that its brightness waxes and wanes, but it has attracted attention because it has dimmed to its faintest appearance … [Read more...] about Science Corner: Post Astrum, Ergo Propter Astrum?
Epiphany Hymn: Hail to the Lord’s Anointed
A Hymn for Epiphany Hail to the Lord's Anointed, great David's greater Son! Hail in the time appointed, his reign on earth begun! He comes to break oppression, to set the captive free; to take away transgression, and rule in equity. He comes with succor speedy to those who suffer wrong; to help the poor and needy, and bid the weak be strong; to give them songs for sighing, their darkness turn to light, whose souls, condemned and dying, are precious in his sight. He shall come down like showers upon … [Read more...] about Epiphany Hymn: Hail to the Lord’s Anointed
Annul Our Ruined Past: Epiphany
During the Christmas season this year, the Emerging Scholars Network is posting works by Christina Rossetti. As a thoughtful poet who engaged deeply with faith, Rossetti wrote a number of poems about the church calendar. Her imagery is rich and thoughtful, and we hope this poetry helps you to reflect on what it means to celebrate Christ's birth. This Sunday before Epiphany we share one of Rossetti's reflections on Epiphanytide. For material from our archives on Advent click here. To God be the glory! - Hannah … [Read more...] about Annul Our Ruined Past: Epiphany
Celebrating Epiphany
Many ESN writers this Christmas chose to explore the journey of the Wise Men, a great topic for Christian scholars. We pray for a rich celebration of Epiphany as the days of Christmas come to a close for this year, and for wisdom as you seek Christ throughout the year. A hymn to celebrate and encourage Christian academics in 2015: As With Gladness Men of Old As with gladness men of old did the guiding star behold; as with joy they hailed its light, leading onward, beaming bright; so, most gracious Lord, may … [Read more...] about Celebrating Epiphany