Epiphany II

Last week I noted that Epiphany means “manifestation” or “appearance” and the Gospels appointed for the Sundays of the Epiphany season all maintain the theme of “manifestation” in one way or another. This Sunday we read from Mark’s Gospel (1:1-11) of Christ’s Baptism and the manifestation revealed from God’s declaration that Jesus is His beloved Son.  Together with the Epistle reading from Romans (12:6-16a), a couple of themes arise.  One is how we use our gifts for God’s Glory, and the other being how Christ’s expression of humility serves as a model for us.

In his Epistle to the Romans, Paul teaches that each of us has been given unique gifts by God, not for our personal pride or advancement, but for the service of others and the building up of the body of Christ. He writes:

"Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them." (Romans 12:6)

Paul lists several examples—prophecy, service, teaching, exhortation, generosity, leadership, and acts of mercy—and exhorts us to use these gifts sincerely and diligently. These are not merely tasks; they are acts of worship, reflecting God’s work in and through us.

We must ask ourselves how are we using the gifts God has given us? Do we recognize them as divine blessings, or do we downplay their importance? Are we faithful in offering them to God and others, or do we hold back out of fear or pride?

Paul also emphasizes the attitude with which we serve: “Let love be genuine… Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.” (Romans 12:9, 12) These virtues ensure that our service is not mechanical or self-serving but flows from a heart transformed by Christ.

In the Gospel of Mark, we see the beginning of Jesus’ public ministry with His baptism by John in the Jordan. This moment is rich with revelation: the heavens are torn open, the Spirit descends like a dove, and the voice of the Father declares:

"You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased." (Mark 1:11)

This scene is a manifestation of Jesus as the Messiah, the Son of God, and the fulfillment of God’s promises. But it also highlights His humility. Though sinless, Jesus submits to baptism, identifying with humanity and its need for repentance. In doing so, He sets an example for us to approach God with humility and obedience.

Do we recognize the humility of Christ as a model for our own lives? Are we willing to submit to God’s will, even when it challenges our pride or comfort?

Just as Jesus was affirmed by the Father, we too are beloved by God. This assurance should give us the confidence to step forward in faith, using our gifts and living in humility.

Today’s readings collectively call us to live as God’s people in two primary ways:

1)      By using the gifts He has entrusted to us for His glory and the good of others, as Paul exhorts in Romans.

2)      By imitating the humility and obedience of Christ, who identified with us in His baptism.

As we journey through this season of Epiphany, let us open our hearts to the light of Christ, allowing Him to guide us in service, humility, and trust. In doing so, we become witnesses of His love and truth, revealing Him to a world in need of hope and salvation.

-- Fr. Chris

All things come of thee, O Lord,

and of thine own have we given thee
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Services & Events

Men's Group Breakfast,  this Saturday January 18, 8:30 AM, Breakfast by our chef extraordinaire Claude Crump, Bible study with Father Bragg, and great fellowship

Sunday Services, 7:45 AM, 9:00 AM, & 11:15 AM (for online participation for the services go to: https://www.facebook.com/saintsofscotland) 

Sunday School, 10:30 AM

Nursery 9:00 & 11:15 Services

Vestry Meeting, Tuesday, January 21, 7:30 PM

Wednesday, 12 noon, Holy Communion and anointing for healing, (for online participation for the service go to: https://www.facebook.com/saintsofscotland)

Annual Meeting, Sunday January 26, following a combined 10:00 AM Service, please fill out a proxy in case you cannot attend: they are available on the narthex table or email Senior Warden Ron Pearson to let him know you are giving him or the Rector your proxy in case you can't be there (ron@pearsonandpipkin.com)
 
UPDATED  LlST OF NEEDS FOR MaRIH CRISIS PREGNANCY CENTER

Donations of need items has drastically fallen off this moth. Please help MaRIH Center now. The need is great and urgent this time of year. With its all volunteer staff the Center provides help to mothers-to-be and mothers in need.  Please provide some of the items that are needed.. (You can leave the donations where the food for the food bank is collected on the pew in the undercorft.)

Especially Needed
 In Bold and with an asterisk are a critical need.

Diapers (sizes newborn, *1, 2, 3, *4, *5, & *6)
*Lovies
*Baby wipes
*Diaper rash ointment
*Baby shampoo
*Baby blankets
*Baby bottles
*Bibs toddler
*Formula: *Simulac Advance Formula
Formula: other but not recalled
*Wash clothes
*Hooded towels
*Fall Winter clothing: 3-6 mo, 2T
*Winter coats 2T
*Grocery gift cards
 
Food Bank Needs

The food bank appreciates the generosity of our parish.Please help this month with a food donation if you are able. Those we help feed are very thankful for the food we provide to them each month. Please also buy low sugar cereals (and not the kid's types that have lots of sugar).  Current needs include the following:
canned meats (chicken, corned beef, spam)
peanut butter
jelly
tuna
canned vegetables (corn, green beans - (regular and low sodium)
 individual fruit cups (low sugar)
canned fruit (low sugar)
canola or vegetable oil (48 oz)
boxed cereal (low sugar) and instant or old fashioned oatmeal (18 oz or 42 oz)
pasta (regular and gluten-free):
instant potatoes
single serving fruit juice
macaroni & cheese
soups: Chunky or Progresso,noodle soup; chicken broth, cream of mushroom
coffee, cooking oil, flour, sugar
 
 
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