Kate’s sermon for the Feast of Epiphany invites us to reflect on the courage and trust required to follow God’s call. She shares her own journey of returning to Epiphany Parish, noting how life often unfolds in unexpected ways when we are open to the Holy Spirit’s guidance. Drawing from the story of the Magi and their long journey to meet the Christ child, she reminds us that responding to God’s call often means stepping into the unknown with faith. Just as the Magi followed the star to find Emmanuel—God with us—Kate encourages us to look around, not up, and truly see the beauty and holiness in our relationships and surroundings, which are glimpses of God’s kingdom here on earth.
She further connects this message to Epiphany Parish’s mission as a spiritual center of gravity in the city of Seattle, where relationships are primary to our practice of Christianity. RELATA, which invites both newcomers and members to share in connection and belonging, exemplifies this mission. Kate emphasizes the importance of being open to new experiences and trusting God as we step into the unknown together as a community. Just as the Magi brought their gifts, she calls on us to bring our own gifts, courage, and trust as we respond to God’s call and embrace the vibrant, holy life God invites us to share.
Reflection Questions for this Week:
- The Magi’s journey required courage, trust, and a willingness to step into the unknown. How does this call to courage and trust resonate with your own experience of following God’s guidance or making significant life decisions?
- Kate highlights the importance of “looking around, not up,” to see and appreciate God’s kingdom in our relationships and surroundings. How can we practice this kind of awareness in our daily lives? What might we notice if we do?
- Epiphany Parish is described as a spiritual center for the “rigorous practice of Christianity,” with a focus on relationships and community. How can we, as individuals or as a community, embody this mission and invite others into it?