Epiphany is the season of light, and today’s lessons proclaim the light that has come into our world.  It shines on those who sit in darkness—the darkness of exile, the darkness of division, the darkness of suffering, the darkness of not knowing the true Word of God.  And when light shines on minds, souls, and hearts, it calls forth a response: rejoicing, renewed commitment and communion, and walking in God’s ways…even if that entails following a stranger down the beach into the unknown.