While the Holy Family was still in Bethlehem just after Jesus’ birth, the Magi visited them. We call this day Epiphany, Coming from three different geographic areas, the Magi represented all people of the world, and their journey to worship the Newborn King signaled the coming of Christ to all – Gentiles and Jews alike – as well as other cultures and heritages.
When Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea, in the days of King Herod, behold, magi from the east arrived in Jerusalem, saying,“Where is the newborn king of the Jews? We saw his star at its rising and have come to do him homage.”
After their audience with the king they set out. And behold, the star that they had seen at its rising preceded them, until it came and stopped over the place where the child was. They were overjoyed at seeing the star, and on entering the house they saw the child with Mary his mother. They prostrated themselves and did him homage. Then they opened their treasures and offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. And having been warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they departed for their country by another way. – Matthew 2:1-2, 9-12
The Magi’s gifts at Epiphany had special meaning, all pointing to different aspects of Jesus’ identity. Gold: Jesus’ Kingship. Frankincense: Jesus’ Diety. Myrrh: Jesus’ Death. Could we give him the gold, frankincense, and myrrh of our hearts in honor of this day?
Gold: Surrender to him all that we treasure, entrusting to him our entire being, lives, and possessions.
Frankincense: Spiritually and, if you like, physically, bow before him. It would be ideal to bow before him in the creche in your home (if you have one) or the creche at your local church or shrine. You even could pull up an image of a creche on your phone or computer.
Myrrh: Pledge your life and loyalty to the King who suffered and died for you. Commit to spending every moment in his service, following his wishes and commands, and leading others to him. Ask the Christ Child for the grace to live a holy life and die a holy death.
Perhaps today we all could pause for a brief prayer to the Magi in honor of this historic and grace-filled day.
Prayer to the Magi*
Melchior, Balthasar, and Gaspar,
You were the Magi who we celebrate each Epiphany. Many call you the Three Wise Men for indeed you were. You were learned men who understood the necessity of worshipping the Christ. You were royal men who brought him expensive and meaningful gifts taken from your own resources. You were faithful men who traveled far, avoided Herod’s conniving, and subverted his evil plans for Jesus’ sake. Please pray for all peoples to recognize and worship the King of Kings. Please pray for me to follow in your footsteps by offering the Christ Child the gold, frankincense, and myrrh of my heart.
Amen.
*Written by Marge Steinhage Fenelon. Use only with permission.
Image: Pixy.com, CC
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