We’ve grown up singing this song, but have you ever stopped to think about what it’s about? I encourage you to do a little research on this. There are many theories, but I love the idea of using it as a teaching tool, a catechism if you will. Any opportunity to pass down our faith is a good thing, and numbers and symbols work with children and adults alike.
The tradition of Epiphany (also called “Three Kings Day” or “Twelfth Day”) is celebrated on January 6. This is the twelfth day after Christmas, and in many traditions, it signifies the “manifestation” of God the Son, Jesus Christ. This epiphany of God in the flesh is often recognized when the magi visited Jesus, “He who is born King of the Jews.” These magi (or astrologers, kings or priests) were Gentiles, and it is significant that they would recognize Him as King and bow in worship, bringing costly gifts.
Gold represented the value He deserves, symbolic of His kingship. Frankincense was a perfume, symbolic of His priesthood. Myrrh was used an anointing or embalming oil, prophesying the death He would endure. Each signified the role He would take in coming to Earth to save His people from their sins — prophet, priest and king.
The account in Matthew 2 does not give an exact time span between the birth of Christ, the visit of the shepherds, and the visit of the magi, but it can be assumed it is sometime before His second birthday due to historical records of the reigning Herods. We typically see the “kings” in our Nativity scenes, but to get an accurate portrayal of the early worship of Christ, continue to study this. What we do know is that Jesus was worshipped.
Epiphany as a liturgical event is first mentioned in AD 361, according to some historical records. When we first married, we decided to celebrate the season from the first Sunday of Advent until Epiphany. When our daughter was born on January 6, 1993, we decided to end our Christmas season prior to her birthday celebrations, but remembering the big picture of the Advent of Christ still is the focus. I wish you all a blessed and glorious 2010. Continue to learn more about your faith and your part of the Church in the world. Get to know Him as your prophet, priest and king!
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