Epiphany 1 – A Servant People, A Brave Light

A Servant People, A Brave Light

A short reflection on Isaiah 42:1-9 and Acts 10:34-43

Isaiah paints a beautiful and challenging picture of God’s servant: not loud or flashy, but full of steady purpose. This servant brings justice, opens blind eyes, and walks gently into pain without giving up. In the gospel story from Acts, Peter also has his eyes opened – to the radical welcome of God. "God shows no partiality," he says, as he realises the gospel is not just for a select few, but for everyone.

Together, these passages remind us that God’s calling is both inward and outward. We are not called to comfort or prestige, but to courage and compassion. Like the servant in Isaiah, we are upheld by God to be light-bearers in the world. Like Peter, we are invited to cross boundaries and welcome those we might once have overlooked.

In today’s world – whether in Aotearoa or elsewhere – this calling remains urgent. Justice is still needed. Margins still exist. God still sends light through ordinary people like us. We’re not expected to do it alone, but together – as a servant people, shaped by God’s Spirit.

Justice requires community: We are called not just as individuals, but as a people, to bring light and healing where it’s most needed.

God’s welcome has no limits: True faith crosses barriers and makes room for all, especially those who’ve been excluded.

Ngā mihi
Philip

p.s. Worship leaders: You can buy a complete Order of Service and Sermon based on these readings here:
https://philipgarsidebooks.com/products/worship-at-hand-epiphany-1-11-january-2026