Solemnity of the Epiphany

 

Today we celebrate the Epiphany of the Lord.  This is the day long ago when the Magi followed the star to Bethlehem and found the child Jesus who had been born in a stable.    The hymn that is most famous for this day was written by John Henry Hopkins, Jr. in 1857.    It recalls for us the events in Matthew’s gospel.

We Three Kings

	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, Gold I bring to crown Him again, King forever, Ceasing never Over us all to reign.
	Frankincense to offer have I, Incense owns a Deityty nigh: Prayer and praising All men raising, Worship God on High.
	Myrrh is mine; its bitter perfume Breathes a life of gathering gloom; — Sorrowing, sighing, Bleeding, dying, Sealed in the stone-cold tomb.
	Glorious now behold Him arise, King, and God, and Sacrifice; Heav’n sings Hallelujah. Hallelujah the earth replies. The Magi were seekers.  May we always remember to be seekers of the truth and live lives focused on the gospel and following Jesus in all we do.