The Epiphany

Today we celebrate the Feast of the Epiphany.  The visit of the Magi occurs in Matthew’s Gospel.  The visit of the astrologers, kings, noblemen or travelers is a story that we so associate with the Christmas Season.  We know little about the Magi. They come from the East and journey to Bethlehem, following an astrological sign, so we believe them to be astrologers. We assume that there were three Magi based upon the naming of their three gifts. The Gospel does not say how many Magi paid homage to Jesus. In Matthew’s Gospel, they represent the Gentiles’ search for a savior. Because the Magi represent the entire world, they also represent our search for Jesus.

We have come to consider the gifts they bring as a foreshadowing of Jesus’ role in salvation. We believe the meaning of the gifts to be Christological. Gold is presented as representative of Jesus’ kingship. Frankincense is a symbol of his divinity because priests burned the substance in the Temple. Myrrh, which was used to prepare the dead for burial, is offered in anticipation of Jesus’ death.  The word Epiphany means “manifestation” or “showing forth.” Historically several moments in Christ’s early life and ministry have been celebrated as “epiphanies,” including his birth in Bethlehem, the visit of the Magi, his baptism by John, and his first miracle at Cana. 

At most Liturgies today the song We Three Kings is sung.

WE THREE KINGS LYRICS

We three kings of Orient are Bearing gifts we traverse afar.

Field and fountain, moor and mountain, Following yonder star.

O star of wonder, star of night, Star with royal beauty bright,

Westward leading, still proceeding, Guide us to thy perfect Light. 

Born a king on Bethlehem’s plain, Gold I bring to crown Him again,

King forever, ceasing never Over us all to reign.

O star of wonder, star of night, Star with royal beauty bright,

Westward leading, still proceeding Guide us to thy perfect Light. 

Frankincense to offer have I.  Incense owns a Deity nigh.

Prayer and praising all men raising, Worship Him, God on high.

O star of wonder, star of night, Star with royal beauty bright,

Westward leading, still proceeding, Guide us to thy perfect Light.

Myrrh is mine: Its bitter perfume Breaths a life of gathering gloom.

Sorrowing, sighing, bleeding dying, Sealed in the stone-cold tomb.

O star of wonder, star of night, Star with royal beauty bright,

Westward leading, still proceeding, Guide us to thy perfect Light.

As we reflect on this day and this song let us always remember to follow the star that continually leads us to Jesus.  Let us follow the star this day to the perfect light.