Traditionally, the Epiphany of the Lord is celebrated on January 6th. However, in the United States, the feast has been transferred to a Sunday. In 2011, it falls on January 2nd.
This feast celebrates the epiphany (manifestation) of Christ to the Gentiles, symbolized by Christ's manifestation to the Magi (Wise Men).
There are many legends about the visit of the Magi or Wise Men. First of all, there is no evidence to confirm the number of Magi. Second, the number three (3) is used because of the number of gifts. Third, Christian writers have always referred to them as kings, but, again, nothing can historically prove that. Fourth, as of the 6th century, the Magi have been called Gaspar, Melchior, and Balthasar in the Western church. Fifth, according to the Catholic Source Book , Saint Bede the Venerable provided some interesting information. In addition to the names already mentioned above, he went as far as describing them. Melchior was ‘an old man, with white hair and a long beard; he offered gold to the Lord as to his King. The second, Gaspar by name, young, beardless, of ruddy hue, offered to Jesus his gift of incense, the homage due to Divinity. The third, of black complexion, with heavy beard, was middle-aged and called Balthasar. The myrrh, he held in his hand, prefigured the death of the son of Man.’ All of these details are fun, interesting, but not historically true.
What we do know about the Magi is found in Matthew’s Gospel and is the only evangelist who mentions this story.
1 When Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea, in the days of King Herod,
2 behold, magi from the east arrived in Jerusalem, saying, "Where is the newborn king of the Jews? We saw his star 3 at its rising and have come to do him homage." When King Herod heard this, he was greatly troubled, and all Jerusalem with him. 4 Assembling all the chief priests and the scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Messiah was to be born. 5 They said to him, "In Bethlehem of Judea, for thus it has been written through the prophet: 6 'And you, Bethlehem, land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; since from you shall come a ruler, who is to shepherd my people Israel.'" 7 Then Herod called the magi secretly and ascertained from them the time of the star's appearance. 8 He sent them to Bethlehem and said, "Go and search diligently for the child. When you have found him, bring me word, that I too may go and do him homage." 9 After their audience with the king they set out. And behold, the star that they had seen at its rising preceded them, until it came and stopped over the place where the child was. 10 They were overjoyed at seeing the star, 11 5 and on entering the house they saw the child with Mary his mother. They prostrated themselves and did him homage. Then they opened their treasures and offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. 12 And having been warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they departed for their country by another way.
My Jesus, may I never forget that you are my Lord, King and God and that you died on the cross for me a sinner. May I offer the little that I have, my aches, pains, trials, disappointments for you in praise and thanksgiving. Amen
Trivia Question:
In Mexico, on what day did they traditionally receive and exchange gifts?
Answer to 1/1/11 question: The Feast of the Circumcision of the Child Jesus.
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