Today, I join the millions of Christians in the United States and around the world celebrating the Epiphany-a joyous feast day commemorating the glorious manifestation of Jesus Christ as the Redeemer of mankind, Prince of Peace, and Savior of the world.
This sacred feast is one of the oldest and holiest days of the Christian faith. Centuries before the birth of Jesus, the prophet Isaiah foretold the miracle of the Epiphany when, according to Holy Scripture, he declared: "Nations shall walk by your light, and kings by your shining radiance." That ancient promise was fulfilled in glory when three wise men journeyed from the east, guided by a magnificent star that would lead them to the infant Son of God in the humble surroundings of a stable.
The wise men's journey first led them to King Herod in Jerusalem, where they asked, "Where is the newborn king of the Jews?" Dismissed by Herod, they journeyed on to the small town of Bethlehem, following the heavenly sign that drew them to the Messiah. As the Bible tells us, "they were overjoyed" at the sight of the star. Their joy deepened when they entered the birthplace of God Himself-who, in the most revolutionary act of love in all of history, took on human flesh to dwell among His creation. In humble adoration, the wise men offered gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh-symbolizing Christ's role as king of the universe, His divinity, and His incarnate mission as Savior of mankind.
Just as the star pierced the stillness of the night sky thousands of years ago, the light of Christ continues to shine through forces of darkness. Every day, the life and divine teachings of Jesus continue to call all people-and all nations-to live in truth and courage.
Over the last year, the peace, hope, and love of Jesus Christ has touched our Nation and the world in extraordinary ways. Before our very eyes, a new era of peace is sweeping across the globe. Faith in God is resurging on American shores. Religious freedom is coming back like never before. As we celebrate 250 years of the United States of America-a Nation forged in faith, sacrifice, and an enduring trust in God's divine providence-we thank our Creator for His extraordinary blessings and ask for a continued outpouring of grace upon our Nation and the world.
More than 2,000 years after His birth, Jesus Christ remains a guiding light for our country and for all of the human race. This Epiphany, the First Lady and I join Christians in praying that the light of Jesus Christ will lead us ever closer to a future filled with justice, generosity, prosperity, and peace.
