Happy Old Christmas

For our first Sacred Sunday photo of 2013, we are sharing this sunset, in northeast Greensboro, from a few days ago. Nature is a beautiful thing. In the long hours of darkness in the winter months, a beautiful sunset becomes a cherished gift. Today is not only Sunday, it is the Epiphany, the Biblical Visitation of the Magi to the Baby Jesus. Some cultures are celebrating Kings' Day and children will be receiving gifts. So, regardless of what you celebrate today, take a look at the sky and be thankful for its eternal beauty. Even on overcast days, we can find something that makes us feel gratitude.

If you get a chance, head to a bakery and purchase rosca de reyes, which looks rather like something between bread and fruitcake. If your piece has the little plastic baby Jesus in it, know that the next party will be at your house! Well, dear readers, Happy Epiphany. May you have a day of rest and a day where nature reaches down and embraces you in its glory. 

Comments

[Janis & David]

My friend, and GDP reader, Katja Brown posted the following message on Facebook. I'm hoping she doesn't mind my sharing it here as it outlines more "traditions around the world" on January 6th:

"Blessed Epiphany to all that are celebrating. I am not catholic myself but in my tiny town in Germany the custom of the Star Singers, reminiscent of the travel of the Three Kings is still very much alive. Beginning with New Years and through January 6, children dressed as the kings, and holding up a large star, go from door to door, caroling and singing a Three Kings' song. For this they receive money or sweets.

On the evening before Three Kings (in German they are called "die heiligen drei Könige"), traditionally there are prayers, blessed dried herbs are burnt and their aromatic smell fills the house. Doorways are sprinkled with holy water and the master of the house writes with chalk C + M + B and the year above the house and barn door and say: "Caspar, Melchior, Balthasar, behütet uns auch für dieses Jahr, vor Feuer und vor Wassergefahr." ("CMB, protect us again this year from the dangers of fire and water.") C + M + B has traditionally been translated with Caspar, Melchior and Balthasar, however, according to the Church it stands for "Christus Mansionem Benedictat" (Christ bless this home).
http://three-kings-day.123holiday.net/"

[Katja]

Thanks for sharing the beautiful pic of the sunset with us!

I am honored that you are quoting my Facebook post with your followers!

Keep up the good work.

[Janis & David]

Happy 100th birthday, New Mexico!