Dear Lovelies,
Epiphany. A celebration of the manifestation of Christ to the Gentiles represented by the magi who visited Jesus bringing gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Who are the magi or wise men? These wise men from the East were more than likely court priests who practiced magic and astrology. Folklore and legend promote that there were three wise men, probably because three gifts were given, and has named them Caspar (or Gaspar), Melchior, and Balthazar (or Belteshazzar). The Bible does not specify how many wise men visit Jesus, but they made enough stir in Jerusalem to be brought before Herod. Their gifts may have had significance: the gold, associated with kingship; the frankincense, with divinity or worship; and the myrrh, with death and embalming. Regardless, the gifts were respectful and expensive and worthy of royalty.
The timing of the visit isn’t quite as pat as one’s nativity set would suggest. The wise men didn’t meet Jesus on that first night in a stable. It was sometime later – days, weeks, months, maybe years later – before they were able to pay homage to Jesus. As to the star they followed, was it a star? An astrological anomaly? Or a literary device used by Matthew to attract more Gentile readers? No matter what one believes as they read this origin account, Jesus was born not just for the Jews but for all people. The Bible tells us so.
Happy Day!
Traci Billman, Director of Christian Education
Last modified: December 28, 2025