Today is Epiphany.

Um, what? 

“Epiphany” means “manifestation.” Historically, it’s a day when Christians mark the manifestation (or appearing, or showing-forth) of Jesus to the gentiles—in other words, to ALL people (not just Jews).

It’s associated with the visit of the wise men who came from a faraway country: “When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him” (Matthew 2:10-11).

But what is the significance for us today?

There are many things we could focus on. But a big one is the emphasis that Jesus is for ALL people—not just people who already follow him, or people who are generally nice and believe in God.

But for EVERYONE.

Here’s a suggestion in the spirit of epiphany: Invite someone to an online worship service.

Many churches are offering live-streamed (or pre-recorded) services each Sunday. Maybe you know someone who would be reluctant to show up to a physical building—but they might be open to tuning in online.

Jesus gives us meaning, purpose, hope, forgiveness, truth, peace, and love—things we can’t get anywhere else. What if your kind-hearted and non-threatening invitation (even by DM, email, text or phone) helped someone take that next best step toward discovering something more about the God who is making all things new and in whom all things are possible?

With your own words, tell them why your church’s service is helpful and hopeful.

Is Jesus for everyone? Yes.
Do we care about people? Yes.
Do we all need what he alone can give? Yes.

“When they saw the star, they were overjoyed.”

Invite someone to an online worship service. Sometimes the first step is actually a click.

By Matthew Ruttan

—For those of you who don’t yet have a church home, you’re invited to Westminster in Barrie! This Sunday (Jan. 10, 2021), we’ll sing, we’ll pray, and I’ll start a 4-month tour through the life-focusing and soul-satisfying Gospel of Luke. (Click here to sign-up for a free, weekly Sunday morning email that connects you directly to our live-stream on YouTube.)

–Bible quotes are from the NIV.