Fields United Methodist Church

Side by Side with Jesus.                                                 Pastor Tom Joyce

January 4, 2021

“When they saw that the star had stopped, they were overwhelmed with joy”

Matthew 2:10

Christians throughout the world consider the season after Christmas as Epiphany which means, “manifestation of God.”  According to the Gospel of Matthew, 3 “magi” followed a unique star which led them to the place where Jesus lived as a toddler. Upon seeing him, they were “overwhelmed with joy.” What else could someone feel than joy when face to face with God?  For most of us, we do not find God following a huge star rather God often becomes real in our everyday lives. God becomes manifest in seeing the medical community caring for patients. Every nurse, doctor, assistant and aid was given very specific gifts by God to be shared with those in need under their care. God becomes manifest in the carpenter, the mason, the plumber, and electrician and every person involved in the building trades; God gave them all gifts to be used in the construction trade. The list of where God is seen continues in accountants, pastors, teachers, social workers, counselors, engineers, manual laborers, and well you get the idea; it is a long list! God’s presence is with all people and every gift that a person has to serve another is a manifestation of God. We “see God” in all people, and in all creation. The season of Epiphany is not just about 3 people visiting Jesus with gifts, it is also about you; you have been given so many gifts from God and what you do with those gifts is your gift back to God. Anytime you serve the people of God and use your gifts for the benefit of others or even to provide a roof over your head and food on the table for your family is a gift you have given to God.  Be overwhelmed with joy when you see another serve God with the amazing gifts they have been given. Be overwhelmed with joy when you use the gifts you have been given be God. The presence of God is overwhelming, and it has become real to us through Jesus. “Epiphany” is not just a one-time thing, it is an everyday thing, it is a celebration of our gracious and merciful Lord and Savior Jesus Christ every moment of every day.

Rev. Tom Joyce