Some people believe that Christmas is over. Perhaps, they think that Christmas is only celebrated on December 25; therefore, probably they have already taken down all Christmas decorations. No more Christmas tree, ornaments, lights, and so on. However, we, Catholics, understand that Christmas is not only a day, but a joyful season which we celebrate the mystery of the nativity of Our Lord Jesus Christ.
Therefore, let us continue celebrating this wonderful season with the celebration of the Epiphany. This celebration is better known as the feast day of the three kings. They are also known as the three wise men or the three magi. They appear in the gospel of Matthew 2:1-12. This is the story of how 3 magi go to worship the new baby king. They recognize that Jesus is the King of kings; hence, they gave Him three gifts: gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Gold was a gift for a king, frankincense was a gift for God, and myrrh was an oil that was used for burials. With these three gifts, the magi recognize Jesus as a king and God, and they tell us with the myrrh the destiny of Jesus: to die on the Cross for us. This is a beautiful story to read at home, especially with our kids.
There is a short novel by Henry Van Dyke called “The other wise man,” and published in 1895. Almost a century later, in 1985, Michael Ray Rhodes filmed a television movie called “The fourth wise man,” based on the story of Van Dyke. This story tells us the life of Artaban, one of the Medes from Persia. Like Gaspar, Melchior, and Balthasar, Artaban saw the star which would lead him to see the king of kings. However, he had difficulties and could not go to see the newborn king. All his life, he tried to see Jesus, and the only time he was able to see Him was during the crucifixion. However, Jesus appeared to Artaban when he was dying and said that every time he helped people, he saw Jesus’ face. This is another story that we can share with our family.
The story of the fourth wise man is a fictional story. It does not appear in the Bible. However, it brings us a great message: we are that fourth magi who always see Jesus each time that we do charitable works. Gaspar, Melchior, and Balthasar worshipped the baby of Bethlehem. Artaban tried to see and worship the newborn king, but you and I are always able to see Him in the Eucharist, in the sacraments, and in the face of our brothers and sisters, who we interact with every day.
Let us worship the King of kings always with our prayers, our actions, and our lives.
Let us pray:
O God, who by the guidance of a star did on this day manifest Your onlybegotten Son to the Gentiles, mercifully grant that we who know You by faith may also attain the vision of Your glorious majesty. Through Christ our Lord. All: Amen.
God bless you and may the Blessed Virgin Mary be with you!
Fr. Jorge Ramírez
