January 2019 Year C: Scriptures and Reflections (First Steps to Faith)

The book begins with the presentation of Jesus in the temple, eight days after birth. This is the day when Mary offers a special sacrifice to thank God for safely delivering her child. The Wise Men arrive on January 6 for the Feast of the Epiphany. This is the day that the Greek Orthodox celebrate the birth of Jesus. Fast forward thirty years to celebrate the wedding at Cana, followed by the Baptism of Jesus by his cousin John in the River Jordan. During a brief visit home, Jesus astounds the congregation when he reads from Isaiah 61:1. This sets in motion the events leading to the cross.