Day 3 – The Light to the Nations
Theme: Christ’s Light Shines for All Peoples
Weekday in the Epiphany Season
Opening Prayer
Gather as a family or individually. Light a candle, remembering Christ the Light.
In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Father of light,
on this day we thank You for revealing Your Son
as the true Light that enlightens every person.
Dispel the darkness of sin and ignorance in our hearts
and make us bearers of Your radiant love to the world.
Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Scripture Reading
Read slowly and prayerfully:
Isaiah 60:1–6 (Arise, Shine! Your Light Has Come)
“Rise up in splendor, Jerusalem! Your light has come, the glory of the Lord shines upon you. See, darkness covers the earth, and thick clouds cover the peoples; but upon you the Lord shines, and over you appears his glory. Nations shall walk by your light, and kings by your shining radiance.”
Ephesians 3:5–6 (The Mystery Revealed to the Gentiles)
“…the mystery was made known to me by revelation… that the Gentiles are coheirs, members of the same body, and copartners in the promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel.”
Reflection
The Epiphany is not only about the Magi finding Jesus; it is about Jesus being revealed as Savior for all peoples, without exception.
- The star rose over Bethlehem, but its light was meant to reach every corner of the earth.
- Through the coming of the Magi — foreigners, Gentiles, outsiders — God proclaims that His salvation is universal.
- Isaiah’s prophecy, fulfilled in Christ, tells us that the glory of the Lord shines not just on Israel, but draws all nations to Himself.
Today, we are the “nations” who have received this light through baptism. We are called to let it shine forth in a world often covered by darkness. The same Light that guided the Magi now lives in us — and through our words, actions, and love, we become Epiphanies of Christ to others.
Questions for Personal or Family Reflection
- In what areas of my life or the world do I see “darkness covering the earth”? How can Christ’s light break through there?
- Who are the “Gentiles” or outsiders in my life today — people different from me in culture, belief, or circumstance? How can I share Christ’s light with them?
- Does my life radiate the glory of God in such a way that others are drawn to Him?
Practical Activities for Catholics
- Share the Light
Light an extra candle tonight and pray specifically for a country, people group, or missionary effort that brings the Gospel to those who have not yet heard it. - Be a Light to Someone
Reach out to someone who feels like an “outsider” — a new neighbor, coworker, or parishioner — with a kind word, invitation, or small gesture of welcome. - Sing Together
Sing “Christ, Be Our Light” by Bernadette Farrell or “City of God” (“Awake from your slumber! Arise from your sleep! A new day is dawning for all those who weep…”). - Act of Charity
Support an organization that spreads the faith (e.g., missionary society, Catholic media, or evangelization effort) with prayer, a donation, or sharing their work. - Closing Prayer – Prayer for the Spread of the Gospel
Lord Jesus,
Light of the Nations,
You came not for one people but for all.
Drive away the darkness of hatred, indifference, and unbelief.
Make me a bold and joyful witness to Your love.
Let Your light shine through my words and deeds
until every heart turns to You.
Mary, Morning Star, pray for us.
St. Paul, Apostle to the Gentiles, pray for us.
Amen.
In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
May Christ’s light shine brightly through you today.
Day 4 👉: The Baptism of Jesus.