Epiphany Week 1 - The Light Goes Public

Scripture Reading

Matthew 2:1–12

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Big Idea (For Parents)

Epiphany is not simply the story of who Jesus is, but who Jesus is for.

The light that dawned in Israel does not stay contained there.

It spills outward—quietly at first, almost unnoticed—until foreigners are bowing at the feet of

Israel’s Messiah.

From the beginning, God’s plan was never to hoard the light, but to share it.

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Family Reflection

(Read aloud or summarize)

When Jesus was born, God lit a light in the darkness. But that light was never meant to stay in

one place. The wise men came from far away. They didn’t grow up with the Scriptures. They

weren’t part of God’s covenant people. And yet—God drew them in. He put a star in the sky. He

gave them just enough light to start walking. Epiphany reminds us that God’s light is generous. It

crosses borders. It reaches outsiders. It finds people who weren’t even looking for it yet. And

now—we are the ones who carry that light.

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Discussion Questions

(Choose 1–2, adjust for age)

-Why do you think God wanted the wise men to find Jesus?

-What kind of people do you think God wants to draw to Himself today?

-How can our family help others see what God is like?

-What happens if we keep God’s light to ourselves?

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Practice—Learning to Shine

(Simple, embodied action for the week)

Name the Circle

Together, name people who are outside your normal circle:

-A neighbor you don’t know well

-A classmate who sits alone

-A coworker, family member, or friend far from church

Pray for one specific name.

Do a Small, Bright Thing

Choose one simple act of visible goodness this week:

-Write an encouraging note

-Include someone who is usually overlooked

-Give a small gift that may uplift

Explain to your children: “We’re doing this because God shared His light with us.”

Keep the Star in View

Place a candle, a star ornament, or a light somewhere visible in your home this week as a

reminder: The light we’ve been given is meant to be given away.