The Sovereign Love of God

84

T he S eason after E piphany

Third Sunday after the Epiphany January 24 - 30, 2021 Epiphany commemorates the coming of the Magi, the wise men from the East who followed the star in search of the Christ child. This season emphasizes Christ’s mission to the Gentiles and his claim of salvation for the world. THIS WEEK’S THEME Jesus Starts His Ministry, Mark 1.14-20 Mark records a summary message of Jesus’s ministry proclamation concerning the inauguration of the Kingdom of God. After John the Baptizer was arrested, Jesus journeyed into Galilee proclaiming the glad tidings of God, saying, “The time is fulfilled, and the Kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel.” The idea that the Kingdom of God was present in his day is a central element in his understanding of the Gospel. In the ministry and person of Jesus of Nazareth, the royal rule and kingship of God’s kingdom activity had become present, including its benefits and blessings.

WEEK 9

Daily Devotional Guide

Preparing Our Hearts

Invocation: Our Prayer of Acclamation Eternal God and Father of our Lord Jesus, thank you for inaugurating the Kingdom promised through the prophets and through the incarnation and ministry of your Son, our Lord. In his miracles, exorcisms, teaching, and holy person, he displayed the power and glory of your royal rule, and called all people to surrender to your kingdom reign. Now, in our hearts and through our lives, manifest the glory of your Kingdom that all who know us might see and understand it. In Jesus’s name we pray, amen.