Prepare for Epiphany 2 (January 20)
Within the liturgy for each Lord’s day, we receive the Word of God through uniquely appointed readings, psalms, hymns, and prayers. This week we will pray the Office of Matins (audio of this liturgy.) The following guide will help you to prepare to hear and sing the Propers, i.e. the varied texts and hymns for this week.
Jesus' First Miracle Reveals God's Glory
The coming of the Messianic kingdom means the restoration of creation. The sign of this restoration is that "the mountains shall drip sweet wine" (Amos 9:11_15). When the elements of a fallen creation fail and run short at a wedding feast, our Lord Jesus steps in to restore creation and miraculously changes water into an abundance of the very best wine (John 2:1_11). With this sign, Christ manifests His glory. The "back" of God (Ex. 33:12_23) is revealed to those who believe. The hour will come when Jesus will again manifest His glory by taking creation's curse into His own body to release us from its power. The Bridegroom will give His life for the Bride (Eph. 5:22_32), and from His side will flow water and blood, the holy sacraments by which she is cleansed and made one with Him. Through this sacrificial love of Christ we are enabled to "love one another with brotherly affection . . ." and to "outdo one another in showing honor" (Rom. 12:6_16).
Collect of the Day: Almighty and everlasting God, who governs all things in heaven and on earth, mercifully hear the prayers of Your people and grant us Your peace through all our days; through Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.
Readings:
Old Testament: Ex. 33:12-23
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ex.%2033%3A12-23
Epistle: Rom. 12:6-16
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Rom.%2012%3A6-16
Holy Gospel: John 2:1-11
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%202%3A1-11
Hymns:
409 Hail, O Source of every blessing O Durchbrecher Video
402 The only Son from heaven Herr Christ, der einig Gotts Sohn Video
394 Songs of thankfulness and praise St. George's Windsor Video