We three kings of Orient are, bearing gifts we traverse afar . . .
It may be easy for many of us to sing this song by heart, without giving it much thought. It can be routine to celebrate the Feast of the Epiphany as if it is a sweet little story about kings and gifts. But have you ever stopped to reflect more deeply on what it must it have been like to be one of the Magi—to behold a scene so mysterious, so sacred, so filled with glory—to gaze upon the Holy Family and witness first-hand their humility, courage, faithfulness, and obedience? Upon reflection of their visit, I only imagine their hearts experienced what was proclaimed in today’s First Reading from Isaiah.
Then you shall be radiant at what you see, your heart shall throb and overflow . . . . (Isaiah 60:5)
On this, the beautiful Feast of the Epiphany, I want to invite you into a deeper reflection of the visit of the Magi. I invite you to place yourself in the shoes of the man who has come from afar to honor the newborn baby Jesus. Imagine yourself standing before the very scene in Bethlehem. Watch Mary and the sweet baby Jesus interact, still growing acquainted with one another. Notice Saint Joseph, standing with calm and quiet courage. Stand in awe, as perhaps the Magi did, of the holy air that fills the room.
See what it does to your heart.
Stand before the babe and allow your heart to soak in the mystery of it all. My prayer today is that we may each, in a new way, imitate the response of the Magi. Let us prostrate ourselves and do homage to this tiny child who is worthy of all praise—the Son of the Father who withholds no good thing from us, who came in the form of a baby to redeem us, to restore us, and to save us all.
Emily Wilson-Hussem planned her whole life to become a sports reporter but turned out to be a Catholic musician and speaker at the hand of God. She lives out of her suitcase and travels across the world speaking to people of all ages. The heart of her ministry is offering encouragement to teen girls in search of their true identity, and she loves every second of it. She is the author of I Choose the Sky. You can find out more about her here.
Walk With Us this Advent
Get Your Prayerful Planner
