A couple of years ago our family started attending a church that acknowledges the Christian Holiday of The Epiphany on January 6th. The definition of epiphany means to manifest or to reveal something that had once been hidden. This special Christian holiday was somewhat of an epiphany for me, as I had never heard of this before
Imagine my delight when I discovered the Festival of Lights, otherwise known as The Epiphany, celebrated by many Christians worldwide on January 6. History is very interesting to me, and I have found out that this holiday is one of the oldest in Christianity, with records of its celebration dating back to at least AD 200. The time between December 25 through January 6 is called the 12 Days of Christmas. This is considered a time of celebration!
As previously mentioned, I am the girl who loves to keep the season going. This new revelation is all the excuse I need to change my yearly tradition of taking things down January 1st. Last year was the first year I kept the decorations up until January 7th. It was so refreshing to not feel rushed to pack things away when I wasn’t ready. This coming year I plan to continue this new tradition and add in a few more customs to our household.
Epiphany is known as the Festival of Lights because it celebrates the manifestation of Christ as the Light of the World. Commemorating this with lighting candles, lanterns and filling the house with twinkle lights will not be difficult for me.
Similarly, diffusing essential oils of frankincense and myrrh and lighting white candles in golden candlesticks will be a fun way to reflect on the gifts that the magi brought to the Christ child. Baking a Kings cake is another idea I am considering. A freshly milled apple spice cake sounds mighty tasty! Also, presenting our sons with one more small present as well as adding the magi to the nativity set resonates with me. Lastly, reading Matthew 2 and singing a few songs around our piano will round out the evening.
There are many more customs and traditions that are associated with this holiday. I have just scratched the surface as it is pretty new to me. It is fun to learn new things and make new traditions. For me, this is a rewarding one to incorporate as I love all things Christmas!
What about you? Are you a can’t wait to take the decor down or love to linger type of person? As for me, I enthusiastically welcome the extra week I’ve allowed myself to reflect on the true reason for the season.
Isaiah 60:1 says, “Arise, shine; for your light has come”. Either way, focusing on light and love this day and every day throughout the year is a rewarding and worthwhile endeavor.