2026 Epiphany Devotions
Friday, February 13
2 Peter 1:16-21
16 We did not follow cleverly devised myths when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we had been eyewitnesses of his majesty. 17 For he received honor and glory from God the Father when that voice was conveyed to him by the Majestic Glory, saying, “This is my Son, my Beloved, with whom I am well pleased.” 18 We ourselves heard this voice come from heaven, while we were with him on the holy mountain.
19 So we have the prophetic message more fully confirmed. You will do well to be attentive to this as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts. 20 First of all you must understand this, that no prophecy of scripture is a matter of one’s own interpretation, 21 because no prophecy ever came by human will, but men and women moved by the Holy Spirit spoke from God.
“… You will do well to be attentive to this as to a lamp shining in a dark place …”
Our family was vacationing up Pine Creek in the mountains of Pennsylvania. It was a rustic cabin which was comfortable but very remote. One evening, a thunderstorm rolled through and we lost electricity. It was dark – very dark. Thankfully, always prepared, my parents had brought candles for just such a occasion. We spent the remainder of the evening gathered around the table playing cards and eating snacks to the light of candles placed strategically around the room.
It has always amazed me how much light a single candle puts out. While we had several, I’ve been in situations where only one candle is available. Still, the light given off is abundant.
Peter reminds us that following Jesus is sometimes like the leading of a single candle in a dark place. That’s because the world can often seem pretty dim. Surrounded by pain, sorrow, confusion, and chaos, even the light of a solitary candle can push back the darkness, especially if that light is the Light of the World.
Peter urges us to keep our hearts and minds fixed on the true light that enlightens the world – Jesus Christ. Attentiveness to him brings light into our lives, and we, in turn, bring light into the world.
Prayer: Thank you, Lord Jesus, for shining forth with Your light. May Your light guide me this day, and may Your light shine through me especially to those living in the darkness of pain, sorrow, confusion, and chaos. Amen.