Interesting Green: Reflection - We Three Kings of Orient Are

Source (book): "Songs of Christmas", The Stories and Significance of 20 Well-Loved Carols, Chapter 18, "We Three Kings of Orient Are", Page 184.
By Robert M. Solomon, Bishop of the Methodist Church in Singapore from 2000 - 2012

PHOTO: Imagine yourself with the magi on their way to find Christ. What would your thoughts and expectations be?
The first stanza describes the journey of the three kings of orient, following the star and travelling over changing geography, depicting a long journey. There is an opportunity here for us to reflect on our own journey to Christ - as we remember the stages of our lives, and the significant events and people who have led us to Christ and encouraged us on the way. Are we still on this journey? Some may have given up on it, distracted perhaps by the pursuit of wealth, position, power and entertainment. Others may not have expected such a long journey, wanting an instant experience. But God rewards patience and passion in finding Him.

Look at the gifts of the magi and reflect on what they express.
Stanza 2 says that Jesus was born a king. It is sung by the wise man who brings his gift of gold. This shows both the royalty ("crown Him") and divinity of Jesus ("King forever"), one who will reign over us all forever. That Jesus belongs to royalty is emphasised by His descent from Israel's pioneer king, David (Matthew 1:1). But He was not only David's son, but also the divine Son of God. Thus He is also the King of Kings (1 Timothy 6:15; Revelation 17:14), before whom all earthly kings must bow (Psalm 72:11). Because Jesus is the eternal King, His kingdom is also eternal and will outlast all other kingdoms. Those who believe in Him should know that they belong to "a kingdom that cannot be shaken" (Hebrews 12:28). They will not be disturbed by bad news (Psalm 112:7), because they know that their eternal King is "enthroned in God's presence for ever" (Psalm 61:7).

Stanza 3 is sung by the man who brought the frankincense. This gift represents the divinity of Christ, to whom incense (depicting prayer) is raised. The burning of incense (Psalm 141:2; Revelation 8:4) has to do with worship and the offering of praise. Jesus is to be worshipped as the divine King and Lord. The magi, when they saw the baby Jesus, "bowed down and worshipped him" (Matthew 2:11). Elsewhere in the Bible we find instances where Jesus was worshipped as God. His doubting disciple Thomas exclaimed, "My Lord and my God!" when Jesus showed him His wounded hands and side (John 20:28). Likewise when His disciple saw Jesus walking in water, they "worshipped him, saying, 'Truly you are the Son of God'" (Matthew 14:33). Because Jesus is God, we can also pray to Him. He invites us to do so "And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it" (John 14:13-14).

The man who brought the myrrh prophesies the suffering that Jesus would go through. Myrrh is used in relation to death, as a "bitter perfume" (Stanza 3). The stanza gives a summary of the sacrificial life of Jesus, ending in His death on the cross. Jasus suffered for us in various ways, both leading up to the cross and through the agony of the crucifixion. The apostle Peter, who witnessed the suffering of Christ, wrote of how "Christ suffered for you . . . When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly. 'He himself bore our sins' in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; 'by his wounds you have been healed'" (1 Peter 2:21-24). Jesus suffered for you and for me.

How would you think about His death and resurrection?
The sacrificial life of Jesus, ending in His death on the cross. But the story does not end there. Jesus rose from the grave. His resurrection gives us hope, for He arose to save us and to rule over us. As we keep looking at Jesus, we realise that He is King, God, and Saviour. What a King! What a God! What a Saviour!

What gift would you have in your hand?
If I am able, I would offer the COVID-19 Coronavirus Vaccine. Baby Jesus is both human and God. As God He needs no vaccine, but as human He need something to protect against the 2019 Novel Coronavirus. This vaccine can stimulate the production of antibodies and provide immunity against the disease. It is prepared from the causative agent (the cause) of the disease, and is treated to act as an antigen without inducing the disease (information is from Google).

At the time of writing (Tuesday, 24 March 2020 at 04:01 GMT) 381,649 people in the world are confirmed infected and 16,558 had died. 102,429 had recovered. The coronavirus COVID-19 is affecting 195 countries and territories around the world and 1 international conveyance (the Diamond Princess cruise ship harboured in Yokohama, Japan).

At this moment, there is no proven vaccine against the COVID-19 Coronavirus. The world's scientists race to find a way to combat the deadly pathogen. China, USA, Japan and Germany are conducting clinical trials, but it is possible vaccines in development without completing the clinical trials are not yet safe or effective. We urgently need God's help. We pray for the availability of the vaccine to save the world with the uncertainty surrounding the outbreak of the Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic.

What would your response be when you see the child?
My response will be as like the shepherds - overwhelmed temporary upon receiving the good news. Then like the magi, upon knowing the good news of Jesus' birth, go to see the wondrous event for ourselves. After seeing the baby Jesus, tell everyone what had happened and what the angel had said about this child. Like us, all who heard the story will be astonished. (Luke 2:8-18).

The magi presenting their gifts and their worship of baby Jesus is an epiphany for us. This is the manifestation of Christ to the Gentiles as represented by the Magi (Matthew 2:1–12). The star they had seen when it rose went ahead of them until it stopped over the place where the child was. It was all in God's plan. Having been warned in a dream not to go back to King Herod, they returned to their country by another route. There was no mistake in the plan. The Saviour would survive and the Gentiles would also be given the offer of Salvation. It would be another epiphany having an opportunity to worship the only One who can give us eternal life, joy, and real rest for eternity in heaven.

We will experienced one epiphany after another, followed by the amazing grace, and blessing of our loving God. Having the vaccine for the COVID-19 Coronavirus will be considered a scientific breakthrough. Having eternal life from God will be a spiritual discovery that provides everything, and we will be eternally grateful of our loving Creator. We will be overwhelmed again when we realised that the gift of eternal salvation is a free gift given by God to all those who will believe on Jesus.

What would your own gift say about Jesus?
Everything in the world belongs to God (1 Corinthians 10:26). When the COVID-19 Coronavirus Vaccine is ready, it is also a gift of love from God. Ultimately, our lives and our health are in the hands of our Father. In 1 Peter 4:10, we're called to use our gifts to serve others as faithful stewards of God's grace. But whatever we do, we need to do it all for the glory of God (1 Corinthians 10:31). As the vaccine is our gift from God, we can use it to glorify Him.

To glorify Him means that we are to acknowledge the greatness and splendour of His Majesty through honour, worship and praise of which He alone is worthy because He is God of all. By using the gift of COVID-19 Coronavirus Vaccine, we glorify the Father who is doing His work in Jesus (John 14:6-11).

Jesus is the Son, and is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. In everything He may have the supremacy (Colossians 1:15), including rulers of the world. He is also the King of kings and Lord of lords (1 Timothy 6:15). He is our King, and also our God, and our Saviour, since the God Father was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him (Colossians 1:19). Our gift of COVID-19 Coronavirus Vaccine, which is from the Father who is also 'one' with Jesus (John 10:30), will also glorify Jesus saying His greatness and splendour of His Majesty.
Artwork by Ambrose Dudley - The Wise Men Seeking Jesus (fl.1920s)
Picture posted by FineArtAmerica.com on 31 July 2012
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We three kings of Orient are;
Bearing gifts we traverse afar,
Field and fountains, moor and mountain,
Following yonder star.

Refrain
O star of wonder, star of night,
Star with royal beauty bright,
Westward leading, still proceeding,
Guide us to thy perfect light.

Born a King on Bethlehem's plain,
Gold I bring to crown Him again,
King forever, ceasing never,
Over us all to reign.

Frankincense to offer have I;
Incense owns a Deity nigh;
Prayer and praising, voices raising,
Worshiping God on high.

Myrrh is mine, its bitter perfume
Breathes a life of gathering gloom;
Sorrowing, sighing, bleeding, dying,
Sealed in the stone cold tomb.

Glorious now behold Him arise;
King and God and sacrifice;
Alleluia!, Alleluia!,
Rings through the earth and skies.

(Source: The United Methodist Hymnal [Nashville: The United Methodist Publishing House, 1989], #254)

PHOTO: The hymn was written in 1857 by Rev. John Henry Hopkins, Jr. (1820-1891). He wrote it for a Christmas pageant by the General Theological Seminary in New York City, where Hopkins served as a music instructor.
Picture posted by Martin Weybright, Find a Grave on 11 January 2010
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https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/46557057/john-henry-hopkins

History of the Carol [1]
The hymn was written in 1857 by Rev. John Henry Hopkins, Jr. (1820-1891). He wrote it for a Christmas pageant by the General Theological Seminary in New York City, where Hopkins served as a music instructor.

The hymn was published by Hopkins in his Carols, Hymns, and Songs in 1863. He also published the song in a specially illustrated 1865 version. In both these publications, the hymn had the title "Three Kings of Orient".

Much discussion has taken place regarding the "three kings of Orient". Elsewhere I have written on this subject, [7] and on who these magi may have been. In the first place, Scripture does not name or number these visitors from the East, only that "Magi from the east came" (Matthew 2:1). As to who they were, we can only speculate.

These magi from the East (very likely not kings as popularly believed) had travelled a long distance to find the house of Jesus and His family. Their story is a fascinating one. The word "magi" is connected to the word "magician". Many of our English Bibles translate the Greek magoi as "wise men". In earlier centuries, several of the church fathers translated the word as "magicians".

PHOTO: These magi from the East (very likely not kings as popularly believed) had travelled a long distance to find the house of Jesus and His family. Their story is a fascinating one. The word "magi" is connected to the word "magician". Many of our English Bibles translate the Greek magoi as "wise men". In earlier centuries, several of the church fathers translated the word as "magicians".
Picture posted by FineArtAmerica.com on 29 July 2015 - Nativity Scene. The Three Wise Men With . . . is a drawing by Vintage Design Pics
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQp_GE-mS1wAJ7aufyHWqX15NG80oJa7rCSJqXX3vSB1p82rbTEOZx12DYJbgZQf0NfAYIZB_CKFiwZWwtxEitDNavTa2GJ1_z3VvMTNbgcxWdgH5mPPGIHFmQa9cTu8kY5eqVSogFQHM/s1600/nativity-scene-the-three-wise-men-with-ken-welsh.jpg
https://images.fineartamerica.com/images/artworkimages/mediumlarge/1/nativity-scene-the-three-wise-men-with-ken-welsh.jpg
https://fineartamerica.com/featured/nativity-scene-the-three-wise-men-with-ken-welsh.html
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2020/03/reflection-first-noel.html

These men belonged to an ancient tradition of esoteric knowledge (Intended for or understood by only a small group) and were involved in practices such as astrology, alchemy (chemistry), the study of ancient texts, magic, and so on. They were both scholars and magicians at the same time.

The magi had come from somewhere in the East, perhaps Babylon, which means they had travelled about 800 miles to get to Bethlehem. How did they know about the birth of Jesus? The answer may go back to the Old Testament prophet Daniel. He was one of the exiles who had been brought to the ancient kingdom of Babylon. There, Daniel flourished as a wise man who could interpret dreams; yet he remained a faithful servant of God in a pagan land. Once, Nebuchadnezzar, Babylon's greatest king, summoned astrologers to describe and interpret a disturbing dream he had. The astrologers told the king that it was an impossible task. The troubled king then furiously ordered the execution of "all the wise men of Babylon" (Daniel 2:12). Learning about the situation, Daniel, with God's help, successfully identified and interpreted the king's dream, thus saving himself along with all the other wise men in the kingdom.

Nebuchadnezzar was so deeply relieved and impressed that he rewarded Daniel with many positions in Babylon; he placed Daniel "in charge of all its wise men" (Daniel 2:48). He was given the title Rab-mag, the chief of the magoi (Daniel 4:9; 5:11-22; Belteshazzar was Daniel's Babylonian name). As the chief, he would have taught the magoi many things, including the Hebrew Scriptures. This knowledge must have been passed down through the years. It is therefore no surprise that the magi who visited Jesus a few centuries after Daniel would have known the prophecy in Numbers 24:17: "A star will come out of Jacob; a sceptre will rise out of Israel." Here, a connection is made between the appearance of a star and the emergence of a future king of Israel. Obviously, this would be no ordinary king, considering the nature of the prophecy.

PHOTO: The magi had come from somewhere in the East, perhaps Babylon, which means they had travelled about 800 miles to get to Bethlehem. How did they know about the birth of Jesus? The answer may go back to the Old Testament prophet Daniel. As the chief, he would have taught the magoi many things, including the Hebrew Scriptures. This knowledge must have been passed down through the years. It is therefore no surprise that the magi who visited Jesus a few centuries after Daniel would have known the prophecy of the emergence of a future king of Israel.
Picture posted by วัลลภา รักไทย on March 2019 - Daniel Interprets Dream for King Nebuchadnezzar
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https://slideplayer.com/slide/16177607/

The magi saw the star in the East, where they came from. Recognising this as a comic omen and connecting it with Numbers 24:17, they decided to embark on a long journey to find the new-born king, which would have taken several months. They naturally arrived in Jerusalem, at King Herod's palace. Where else would one find a new-born king? So they asked Herod, "Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him" (Matthew 2:2). When Herod heard the question, he was disturbed, and all Jerusalem with him. He had his religious leaders find out that this new king was to be born in Bethlehem. So he sent the magi there and told them to report back; he had evil intentions to get rid of any competition to his rule.

PHOTO: The magi embark on a long journey to find the new-born king. They naturally arrived in Jerusalem, at King Herod's palace. When Herod heard the question, he was disturbed. He had his religious leaders find out that this new king was to be born in Bethlehem. So he sent the magi there and told them to report back; he had evil intentions to get rid of any competition to his rule.
Picture posted by Zulfiqar Ali on 15 May 2016
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Popular Christian folklore conceived of three wise men or kings visiting Jesus. Speculation as to how many there were has ranged from two to twelve. The number three was derived from the three gifts mentioned in Scripture - gold, frankincense, and myrrh (Matthew 2:11), a fair deduction, except that more men could have brought the gifts or, as some scholars point out, the gifts may in fact be groups or categories of gifts. Some have also pointed to Old Testament prophecies that mention three kings (or three groups of kings) bringing gifts to the eternal King (Psalm 72:10; Isaiah 60:6). Whatever the case may be, tradition also gave the magi their names: Melchior, Jasper, and Balthasar (other versions use the names Galagalath, Magalath, and Tharath).

PHOTO: Popular Christian folklore conceived of three wise men or kings visiting Jesus. The number three was derived from the three gifts mentioned in Scripture - gold, frankincense, and myrrh (Matthew 2:11). Whatever the case may be, tradition also gave the magi their names: Melchior, Jasper, and Balthasar (other versions use the names Galagalath, Magalath, and Tharath).
Picture saved by Joyce Hermosillo to Christmas Recipes/Crafts/Decorations
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According to the seventh-century historian Bede the Venerable (who may have had access to earlier traditions), and as mentioned in Christmastide - Its Histories, Festivities and Carols (1852) by William Sandys: "Melchior was old, with gray hair and long beard, and offered gold to our Saviour in acknowledgement of his sovereignty; Jasper was young, without any beard, and offered frankincense in recognition of the divinity; and Balthasar was of a dark complexion, as a Moor, with a large spreading beard, and offered myrrh to our Saviour's humanity". This tradition has stuck in Christian imagination and is often portrayed in the paintings of the magi, or in cinematic depictions of the event described in Matthew's account, which is itself silent about the names, number, and appearance of the magi.

PHOTO: According to the seventh-century historian Bede the Venerable, Melchior was old, with gray hair and long beard, and offered gold to our Saviour in acknowledgement of his sovereignty; Jasper was young, without any beard, and offered frankincense in recognition of the divinity; and Balthasar was of a dark complexion, as a Moor, with a large spreading beard, and offered myrrh to our Saviour's humanity.
Picture posted by Etsy, Inc.
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https://www.etsy.com/listing/291435507/three-kings-cotton-fabric-panel-42859-by

A. H. Bullen wrote in 1885 that "The bodies of the three kings were taken, about three hundred years after their death, by the Empress Helena to Constantinople; thence by Eustatius to Milan; afterwards by Renaldus the bishop to Cologne, or Collein. Hence they were commonly called the Three Kings of Collein". According to legend, the magi returned home after their visit, sold all their properties and gave the money to the poor, and spent the rest of the lives spreading the gospel. Legend has it that Thomas, Christ's disciple, baptised the magi in India years later. They then went to Armenia to celebrate Christmas in AD 54, and died thereafter as martyrs in their old age. All this is, of course, Christian legend. They were said to have been buried in Jerusalem.

PHOTO: Arthur Henry Bullen, often known as A. H. Bullen, (9 February 1857, London – 29 February 1920, Stratford-on-Avon) was an English editor and publisher, a specialist in 16th and 17th century literature, and founder of the Shakespeare Head Press, which for its first decades was a publisher of fine editions in the tradition of the Kelmscott Press.
Photograph of A. H. Bullen by Emery Walker
Picture from wikipedia by Rathfelder
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https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arthur_Henry_Bullen

A golden shrine was constructed to hold the remains of the magi in Cologne Cathedral. Today, the shrine can still be found behind the high altar, and is the reason for the high volume of visitors to the cathedral, and why the cathedral is also popularly known as the Dreikoenigenkirche (the Church of the Three Kings).

PHOTO: A golden shrine was constructed to hold the remains of the magi in Cologne Cathedral. Today, the shrine can still be found behind the high altar, and is the reason for the high volume of visitors to the cathedral, and why the cathedral is also popularly known as the Dreikoenigenkirche (the Church of the Three Kings).
The Saint Peter bell can be seen if you walk the 533 steps up to the top of the Southern Tower (for a small fee) and weighs a staggering 24 tonnes. The bell only tolls on special occasions such as New Year’s Day and Christmas Day.
Picture posted by Sophie Nadeau
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https://www.solosophie.com/cologne-cathedral/

The hymn is written in such a way that it is ideal for Christmas plays or for dramatic depictions of the visit of the magi. It has a "storytelling style". It is connected with the celebration of Epiphany (which liturgically marks the visit of the magi), which is also the twelfth day of Christmas.

PHOTO: The hymn is written in such a way that it is ideal for Christmas plays or for dramatic depictions of the visit of the magi. It has a "storytelling style". It is connected with the celebration of Epiphany (which liturgically marks the visit of the magi), which is also the twelfth day of Christmas.
Picture posted by DÊ RESENHA
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https://deresenha.files.wordpress.com/2018/12/c3d4f-natal.jpg
https://deresenha.wordpress.com/2018/12/24/o-natal/

Biblical Insights from the Carol [1]
The hymn focus on the biblical account of the visit of the magi in Bethlehem to see Jesus (Matthew 2). The refrain focuses on the star that the magi saw in the East and which led them to Bethlehem. It is a special star, a "star of wonder" with "royal beauty bright", referring to it being an omen of the birth of a special king. It is spoken to (by the magi), and asked for directions to its "perfect light" - referring to Christ, the Light of the world (John 1:5; 9:5).

PHOTO: The star that the magi saw in the East and which led them to Bethlehem is a special star, a "star of wonder" with "royal beauty bright", referring to it being an omen of the birth of a special king, the Light of the world.
Picture posted by Dreamstime
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https://thumbs.dreamstime.com/b/nativity-christmas-scene-religious-christian-baby-jesus-manger-mary-joseph-three-wise-men-45717522.jpg - (45717522.jpg)
https://www.dreamstime.com/illustration/manger-mary-pregnant.html

Imagine yourself with the magi on their way to find Christ. What would your thoughts and expectations be? What gift would you have in your hand? What would your response be when you see the child? How would you think about His death and resurrection? Look at the gifts of the magi and reflect on what they express. What would your own gift say about Jesus?

Imagine yourself with the magi on their way to find Christ. What would your thoughts and expectations be?
The first stanza describes the journey of the three kings of orient, following the star and travelling over changing geography, depicting a long journey. There is an opportunity here for us to reflect on our own journey to Christ - as we remember the stages of our lives, and the significant events and people who have led us to Christ and encouraged us on the way. Are we still on this journey? Some may have given up on it, distracted perhaps by the pursuit of wealth, position, power and entertainment. Others may not have expected such a long journey, wanting an instant experience. But God rewards patience and passion in finding Him.

PHOTO: Our own journey to Christ
We remember the stages of our lives, and the significant events and people who have led us to Christ and encouraged us on the way.
Photo by R.M. Nunes, Getty Images Hungary
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https://divany.hu/eletem/2019/12/05/rossz-nap/

Look at the gifts of the magi and reflect on what they express.
Stanza 2 says that Jesus was born a king. It is sung by the wise man who brings his gift of gold. This shows both the royalty ("crown Him") and divinity of Jesus ("King forever"), one who will reign over us all forever. That Jesus belongs to royalty is emphasised by His descent from Israel's pioneer king, David (Matthew 1:1). But He was not only David's son, but also the divine Son of God. Thus He is also the King of Kings (1 Timothy 6:15; Revelation 17:14), before whom all earthly kings must bow (Psalm 72:11). Because Jesus is the eternal King, His kingdom is also eternal and will outlast all other kingdoms. Those who believe in Him should know that they belong to "a kingdom that cannot be shaken" (Hebrews 12:28). They will not be disturbed by bad news (Psalm 112:7), because they know that their eternal King is "enthroned in God's presence for ever" (Psalm 61:7).

PHOTO: The Three Wise Men gave baby Jesus 3 gifts
Gold, Frankincense, and Myrrh The gold signifies Jesus being “royalty”.
The frankincense signifies Jesus and his “divinity” aka being an extension of God.
The myrrh signifies Jesus and his immortality, to foreshadow his death and rising 3 days later.
Picture posted by Sergio Araya
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggdMcRIwDLHwRVDUiY61a86wC6-wV32WJdrMABIKqkG6hfPQwF6tH1900mo0RREe-mD3d1t_e11CO93dBIpq5bjDqv5-P69PyQIdXXnURsIQPq6lZfjzpInP8NWalkUf3OwgbbxKG9e24/s1600/slide_4.jpg
https://player.slideplayer.com/95/16158620/slides/slide_4.jpg
https://slideplayer.com/slide/16158620/

Stanza 3 is sung by the man who brought the frankincense. This gift represents the divinity of Christ, to whom incense (depicting prayer) is raised. The burning of incense (Psalm 141:2; Revelation 8:4) has to do with worship and the offering of praise. Jesus is to be worshipped as the divine King and Lord. The magi, when they saw the baby Jesus, "bowed down and worshipped him" (Matthew 2:11). Elsewhere in the Bible we find instances where Jesus was worshipped as God. His doubting disciple Thomas exclaimed, "My Lord and my God!" when Jesus showed him His wounded hands and side (John 20:28). Likewise when His disciple saw Jesus walking in water, they "worshipped him, saying, 'Truly you are the Son of God'" (Matthew 14:33). Because Jesus is God, we can also pray to Him. He invites us to do so "And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it" (John 14:13-14).

PHOTO: Frankincense is the sap from a tree of the same name that dries into lumps of gum resin and is used as incense. In biblical times it was considered to be the best kind of incense, in fact even its name means “pure incense”. It was so valuable that only the very wealthy could afford to use it. Frankincense was considered to be a medicinal substance that cure a wide variety of ailments, but its most common use was as incense.

This gift represents the divinity of Christ, to whom incense (depicting prayer) is raised. Throughout ancient times, many cultures used incense in their worship, as the rising smoke was a great representation of prayers rising to heaven.
Picture posted by holidaysmart.com
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https://www.holidaysmart.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/shutterstock_383719891.jpg
https://www.holidaysmart.com/articles/gold-frankincense-and-myrrh-why-wise-men-brought-these-gifts-newborn-jesus

The man who brought the myrrh prophesies the suffering that Jesus would go through. Myrrh is used in relation to death, as a "bitter perfume" (Stanza 3). The stanza gives a summary of the sacrificial life of Jesus, ending in His death on the cross. Jasus suffered for us in various ways, both leading up to the cross and through the agony of the crucifixion. The apostle Peter, who witnessed the suffering of Christ, wrote of how "Christ suffered for you . . . When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly. 'He himself bore our sins' in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; 'by his wounds you have been healed'" (1 Peter 2:21-24). Jesus suffered for you and for me.

PHOTO: Twelve days after the birth of Jesus, three wise men traveled across the miles to visit him. They brought with them the costly gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh to give to the new born king.
Gold was a precious medal that was only possessed by men as rich as kings. When the magi brought it as a gift to Jesus, it was most likely symbolic of their acknowledgment of his authority as king.
In the old testament, frankincense is mentioned as one of the four components of the sacred incense burned by Jewish priests in the Sanctuary. The gift of frankincense to Jesus by the magi would have signified his divinity and his future as high priest. Its great value also made it an excellent gift for the new king.
Scholars believe that myrrh was given to Jesus by the wise men because its bitter taste represented the hard times he would have in his life. It may have also foreshadowed his death. Some also believe that its medicinal properties symbolize his role as a healer. Each of the three gifts brought by the wise men symbolize different parts of Jesus’s life and his divinity. They share a common value as gifts fit for a new king.Texta from holidaysmart.com - https://www.holidaysmart.com/articles/gold-frankincense-and-myrrh-why-wise-men-brought-these-gifts-newborn-jesus
Picture saved by Isaac Bagley to Chemistry Infographics
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https://i.pinimg.com/originals/7b/a2/ef/7ba2ef7c70ee016a4c045fd4ac78e70d.png
https://www.pinterest.co.kr/pin/392165080030349746/

How would you think about His death and resurrection?
The sacrificial life of Jesus, ending in His death on the cross. But the story does not end there. Jesus rose from the grave. His resurrection gives us hope, for He arose to save us and to rule over us. As we keep looking at Jesus, we realise that He is King, God, and Saviour. What a King! What a God! What a Saviour!

PHOTO: How would you think about His death and resurrection?
The sacrificial life of Jesus, ending in His death on the cross. But the story does not end there. Jesus rose from the grave. His resurrection gives us hope, for He arose to save us and to rule over us. As we keep looking at Jesus, we realise that He is King, God, and Saviour.
Picture posted by Rick McKee Editorial Cartoon on 24 April 2011 at 12:01 AM
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgafnaZicWuLjOPy2XnIldxUWEAJGG4R-mstwUEJEapV8Y-LarWX9xvx_cONRKAKfry5nbd7nZeLNrp0YGVl1NS7NxJZLvN9VvZ55YEi2bhLVuTHaW0-2fhWnNRioHUXfANgdsLf7QXJY/s1600/AR-304249992.jpg
https://www.augustachronicle.com/storyimage/GA/20110424/OPINION/304249992/AR/0/AR-304249992.jpg
https://www.augustachronicle.com/article/20110424/OPINION/304249992

What gift would you have in your hand?
If I am able, I would offer the COVID-19 Coronavirus Vaccine. Baby Jesus is both human and God. As God He needs no vaccine, but as human He need something to protect against the 2019 Novel Coronavirus. This vaccine can stimulate the production of antibodies and provide immunity against the disease. It is prepared from the causative agent (the cause) of the disease, and is treated to act as an antigen without inducing the disease (information is from Google).

PHOTO: What gift would you have in your hand?
If I am able, I would offer the COVID-19 Coronavirus Vaccine. Baby Jesus is both human and God. As God He needs no vaccine, but as human He need something to protect against the 2019 Novel Coronavirus. This vaccine can stimulate the production of antibodies and provide immunity against the disease. It is prepared from the causative agent (the cause) of the disease, and is treated to act as an antigen without inducing the disease (information is from Google).
Picture posted by Aisyah Atiqah on 25 February 2020
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq_V-jodiktU9sh40pWoQiPtzWVRsYjVm0ErkTpw2sOiAkBgIsvJAjWAPQh2L5N8AplTkIdescOyGXUEmimfGzr12HtEdDpqOmb4JIcH2ZUtcndKY8HTc3Jq4NVpJi3A7JoU3S0kC2wvU/s1600/coronavirus-4833616_1280-768x512.jpg
https://www.imapac.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/coronavirus-4833616_1280-768x512.jpg
https://www.imapac.com/en/codagenix-and-serum-institute-to-develop-a-vaccine-against-covid-19/

At the time of writing (Tuesday, 24 March 2020 at 04:01 GMT) 381,649 people in the world are confirmed infected and 16,558 had died. 102,429 had recovered. The coronavirus COVID-19 is affecting 195 countries and territories around the world and 1 international conveyance (the Diamond Princess cruise ship harboured in Yokohama, Japan). [2]

PHOTO: (Tuesday, 24 March 2020 at 04:01 GMT) 381,649 people in the world are confirmed infected and 16,558 had died. 102,429 had recovered. The coronavirus COVID-19 is affecting 195 countries and territories around the world and 1 international conveyance (the Diamond Princess cruise ship harboured in Yokohama, Japan).
Information from Worldometers on Tuesday, 24 March 2020 at 04:01 GMT - COVID-19 Coronavirus Pandemic
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8YDK_3_4aZg6BGu2WaLEKvCQCBklR45Yq8EWiPP0k0f4Idv0GfjnZZiTlCFEa74Pt4BYlylEnf4RVq7JUbroxZt8YfkvbaYtgWTO00lWJoOUxQbnqk6kYmGqmd64uQ5PbU-rpOkRQ72c/s1600/Worldometer_24March2020_Coronavirus_Update_1.png
Worldometer_24March2020_Coronavirus_Update.png
https://www.worldometers.info/coronavirus/

At this moment, there is no proven vaccine against the COVID-19 Coronavirus. The world's scientists race to find a way to combat the deadly pathogen. China, USA, Japan and Germany are conducting clinical trials, but it is possible vaccines in development without completing the clinical trials are not yet safe or effective. We urgently need God's help. We pray for the availability of the vaccine to save the world with the uncertainty surrounding the outbreak of the Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic.

PHOTO: At this moment, there is no proven vaccine against the COVID-19 Coronavirus. The world's scientists race to find a way to combat the deadly pathogen. China, USA, Japan and Germany are conducting clinical trials, but it is possible vaccines in development without completing the clinical trials are not yet safe or effective. We urgently need God's help. We pray for the availability of the vaccine to save the world with the uncertainty surrounding the outbreak of the Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic.
Picture posted by Brian McGleenon on 18 March 2020 at 21:48 - WHO Director General, Dr. Tedros Adhanom
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjghNT_S_0iyzjCexQK_X0CqVaCMRaKgv52_nTCfN1ReUI-omzOZ6705sNdZE6phINf678XlMA8ZP2NovYkj6hYAdHOCcQLqZu2CKw4PIliz77jG09B4D5Cv_iaDhOHi8IDdIVvoS1-GdI/s1600/coronavirus-vaccine-cure-world-health-trial-covid-19-latest-new-updates-1257093.jpg
https://cdn.images.express.co.uk/img/dynamic/78/590x/coronavirus-vaccine-cure-world-health-trial-covid-19-latest-new-updates-1257093.jpg?r=1584568092233
https://www.express.co.uk/news/world/1257093/coronavirus-vaccine-cure-world-health-trial-covid-19-latest-new-updates

What would your response be when you see the child?
My response will be as like the shepherds - overwhelmed temporary upon receiving the good news. Then like the magi, upon knowing the good news of Jesus' birth, go to see the wondrous event for ourselves. After seeing the baby Jesus, tell everyone what had happened and what the angel had said about this child. Like us, all who heard the story will be astonished. (Luke 2:8-18).

PHOTO: What would your response be when you see the child?
My response will be as like the shepherds - overwhelmed temporary upon receiving the good news. Then like the magi, upon knowing the good news of Jesus' birth, go to see the wondrous event for ourselves. After seeing the baby Jesus, tell everyone what had happened and what the angel had said about this child. Like us, all who heard the story will be astonished. (Luke 2:8-18).
Painting by Guido Reni (1575–1642) - St Joseph with the Infant Jesus, 1635
Picture posted by wikioo.org
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMeieELDQ0E_Hm-cgWpc8VHQK9OR8BWzX5yN6ALWNSV4m2rUe5MDNVDGi46zSQKB31gYqTG8DivMJ6yRiUqi0kvP7_DI9lNgV05y0KWl9yighwv4d0PB7GbIlUv7dXehbFVBdh1NE2qVQ/s1600/Guido_reni-st_joseph_with_the_infant_jesus.Jpg
https://en.artsdot.com/ADC/Art-ImgScreen-1.nsf/O/A-8Y3G8P/$FILE/Guido_reni-st_joseph_with_the_infant_jesus.Jpg
https://wikioo.org/it/paintings.php?refarticle=8Y3G8P&titlepainting=san+giuseppe+con++Antartico++infante++ges%C3%B9&artistname=Reni+Guido+%28Le+Guide%29&order=links

The magi presenting their gifts and their worship of baby Jesus is an epiphany for us. This is the manifestation of Christ to the Gentiles as represented by the Magi (Matthew 2:1–12). The star they had seen when it rose went ahead of them until it stopped over the place where the child was. It was all in God's plan. Having been warned in a dream not to go back to King Herod, they returned to their country by another route. There was no mistake in the plan. The Saviour would survive and the Gentiles would also be given the offer of Salvation. It would be another epiphany having an opportunity to worship the only One who can give us eternal life, joy, and real rest for eternity in heaven.

PHOTO: This is the manifestation of Christ to the Gentiles as represented by the Magi (Matthew 2:1–12). It was all in God's plan. Having been warned in a dream not to go back to King Herod, they returned to their country by another route. There was no mistake in the plan. The Saviour would survive and the Gentiles would also be given the offer of Salvation.

The flight into Egypt is a story recounted in the Gospel of Matthew (Matthew 2:13–23) and in New Testament apocrypha. Soon after the visit by the Magi, an angel appeared to Joseph in a dream telling him to flee to Egypt with Mary and the infant Jesus since King Herod would seek the child to kill him.

It would be another epiphany having an opportunity to worship the only One who can give us eternal life, joy, and real rest for eternity in heaven.
Picture posted by Judith Aurora Arias Sarmiento on Wednesday, 14 December 2016 at 10:46 PM - The Escape to Egypt
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioF7xp8tYJuFcT4dOliEXZ3obsgjzpqJbzG1ioCGREdSyagD1EWzuAqNrVcicqOXiCszTKtBuKfJaLA8QKk0vx6LCfdjL57klT92EJvGGkhOAK7W4PvZ3IlXymGAJsqLsOtu3Lyd12XlY/s1600/15420868_1811990382375229_5631564156934874277_n.jpg
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https://imagenesdegifsanimados.blogspot.com/2016/12/imagenes-religiosas-de-navidad.html?m=0

We will experienced one epiphany after another, followed by the amazing grace, and blessing of our loving God. Having the vaccine for the COVID-19 Coronavirus will be considered a scientific breakthrough. Having eternal life from God will be a spiritual discovery that provides everything, and we will be eternally grateful of our loving Creator. We will be overwhelmed again when we realised that the gift of eternal salvation is a free gift given by God to all those who will believe on Jesus.

PHOTO: Having the vaccine for the COVID-19 Coronavirus will be considered a scientific breakthrough. Having eternal life from God will be a spiritual discovery that provides everything, and we will be eternally grateful of our loving Creator. We will be overwhelmed again when we realised that the gift of eternal salvation is a free gift given by God to all those who will believe on Jesus.
Picture posted by The Gospel of Grace Ministries on 23 September 2016
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCkNmHcJpaI9HuhvVNo-JjftsL3NJvak_3T_ylGY5XvvB3OmMRCHkV6or93E_h3J6LT-nVDhozSpjG-KKofdZMItz8W7_6FJhD4cKAGLCnyt9naGPXuVQ1cc4YO5sO_8tBYksQ-K46JrM/s1600/14354984_10154508499479641_2751636120406406709_n.jpg
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https://www.facebook.com/thegospelofgraceministriesteaching/photos/a.452358589640/10154508499479641/?type=3&theater

What would your own gift say about Jesus?
Everything in the world belongs to God (1 Corinthians 10:26). When the COVID-19 Coronavirus Vaccine is ready, it is also a gift of love from God. Ultimately, our lives and our health are in the hands of our Father. In 1 Peter 4:10, we're called to use our gifts to serve others as faithful stewards of God's grace. But whatever we do, we need to do it all for the glory of God (1 Corinthians 10:31). As the vaccine is our gift from God, we can use it to glorify Him.

PHOTO: Everything in the world belongs to God (1 Corinthians 10:26). When the COVID-19 Coronavirus Vaccine is ready, it is also a gift of love from God. Ultimately, our lives and our health are in the hands of our Father. In 1 Peter 4:10, we're called to use our gifts to serve others as faithful stewards of God's grace. But whatever we do, we need to do it all for the glory of God (1 Corinthians 10:31). As the vaccine is our gift from God, we can use it to glorify Him.
Artwork by Rick McKee - The Augusta Chronicle
Picture posted by Eleanor Lois Tomczyk on 31 March 2015
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0tnD-CJFv6ZZWghNw0eZ1Rfn2d9iqnrsapbm4w5_km6Pulftm_l47VEyfYFXlaw7N_ZnLhFbZMvdPzR7VUWspOdkQvGqKkIHj8GiDHbhKOD9jVJ6p5wzV68K0TR1estaplzcuhObjOOM/s1600/death-overcome-by-easter-rick-mckee-the-augusta-chronicle_1.png
https://howthehelldidienduphere.files.wordpress.com/2015/03/death-overcome-by-easter-rick-mckee-the-augusta-chronicle.jpg
https://howthehelldidienduphere.wordpress.com/2015/03/

To glorify Him means that we are to acknowledge the greatness and splendour of His Majesty through honour, worship and praise of which He alone is worthy because He is God of all. By using the gift of COVID-19 Coronavirus Vaccine, we glorify the Father who is doing His work in Jesus (John 14:6-11).

Jesus is the Son, and is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. In everything He may have the supremacy (Colossians 1:15), including rulers of the world. He is also the King of kings and Lord of lords (1 Timothy 6:15). He is our King, and also our God, and our Saviour, since the God Father was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him (Colossians 1:19). Our gift of COVID-19 Coronavirus Vaccine, which is from the Father who is also 'one' with Jesus (John 10:30), will also glorify Jesus saying His greatness and splendour of His Majesty.

PHOTO: What would your own gift say about Jesus?
Our gift of COVID-19 Coronavirus Vaccine, which is from the Father who is also 'one' with Jesus (John 10:30), will also glorify Jesus saying His greatness and splendour of His Majesty.
Picture posted by Industrious.info
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https://i.pinimg.com/736x/b6/c8/fc/b6c8fcfb43518976def4cad82249152c.jpg
http://www.industrious.info/25/05882-holy-trinity.html

PHOTO: “Dear Lord, thank You for giving us during Christmas the opportunity to reflect on our own journey to Christ - as we remember the stages of our lives, and the significant events and people who have led us to Christ and encouraged us on the way.

Please help us not to give up on this journey as we are distracted perhaps by the pursuit of wealth, position, power and entertainment. We may not have expected such a long journey, wanting an instant experience. We learn that patience and passion in finding Him will be rewarded.

The wise man who brings his gift of gold showed that Jesus is the eternal King. His kingdom is also eternal and will outlast all other kingdoms, and cannot be shaken. He is the one who will reign over us all forever.

The man who brought the frankincense means that Jesus is to be worshipped as the divine King and Lord. Because Jesus is God, we can also pray to Him. He invites us to do so, and whatever we ask in His name, the Father may be glorified in the Son. We may ask Him for anything in His name, and He will do it.

The man who brought the myrrh prophesies the suffering that Jesus would go through, ending in His death on the cross. He himself bore our sins' in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; 'by his wounds we have been healed'. He suffered for every one of us. Thank You Lord.

The sacrificial life of Jesus, ending in His death on the cross, gives us hope, for He arose to save us and to rule over us. As we keep looking at Jesus, we realise that He is King, God, and Saviour.

If I am able, I would offer the COVID-19 Coronavirus Vaccine. Baby Jesus is both human and God. As God He needs no vaccine, but as human He need something to protect against the 2019 Novel Coronavirus. We urgently need Your help. We pray for the availability of the vaccine to save the world with the uncertainty surrounding the outbreak of the Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic.

If we were to see baby Jesus, our response will be as like the shepherds - overwhelmed temporary upon receiving the good news. Then like the magi, upon knowing the good news of Jesus' birth, go to see the wondrous event for ourselves. After seeing the baby Jesus, tell everyone what had happened and what the angel had said about this child. Like us, all who heard the story will be astonished.

The magi presenting their gifts and their worship of baby Jesus is an epiphany for us. This is the manifestation of Christ to the Gentiles as represented by the Magi. However we learned that King Herod wanted to kill baby Jesus. We now know that there was no mistake in the plan. Our Saviour would survive and the Gentiles would also be given the offer of Salvation. It would be another epiphany having an opportunity to worship the only One who can give us eternal life, joy, and real rest for eternity in heaven.

We will experienced one epiphany after another, followed by the amazing grace, and blessing of our loving God. Having the vaccine for the COVID-19 Coronavirus will be considered a scientific breakthrough. Having eternal life from God will be a spiritual discovery that provides everything, and we will be eternally grateful to You. We are overwhelm again when we realise that the gift of eternal salvation is a free gift given by You to all those who will believe on Jesus.

When the COVID-19 Coronavirus Vaccine is ready, it is also a gift of love from You. Ultimately, our lives and our health are in Your hands. As the vaccine is our gift from You, we want to use it to glorify You. We want to acknowledge Your greatness and splendour of Your Majesty through honour, worship and praise. By using the gift of COVID-19 Coronavirus Vaccine, we want to glorify You while You do Your work in Jesus.

Jesus is the Son, and is the image of You, the firstborn over all creation. In everything He may have the supremacy, since You were pleased to have all Your fullness dwell in Him. We pray that our gift of COVID-19 Coronavirus Vaccine, which is from You who is also 'one' with Jesus, will also glorify Jesus saying He is the King of kings and Lord of lords. Thank You for having You Son as our King, and also our God, and our Saviour.
Through Lord Jesus Christ we pray. Amen!”
Picture posted by Soulshine on 28 May 2019
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https://www.soulshinecrystals.com/blog/2019/5/28/epiphanies

Reflection - We Three Kings of Orient Are
Question from source (book): "Songs of Christmas", The Stories and Significance of 20 Well-Loved Carols, Chapter 18, "We Three Kings of Orient Are", Page 184.
By Robert M. Solomon, Bishop of the Methodist Church in Singapore from 2000 - 2012

Also from the same author, Robert M. Solomon

"Faithful to the end", A Preacher's Exposition of 2 Timothy, @ 2014 by Robert M. Solomon

Reflection - Faithful to the end (Links)
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2017/06/reflection-faithful-to-end-links.html

"Finding rest for the soul" Responding to Jesus' Invitation in Matthew 11:28-29, © 2016 by Robert M. Solomon

Reflection - Finding rest for the soul (Links)
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2018/10/reflection-finding-rest-for-soul-links.html

"God in Pursuit" Lessons from the Book of Jonah, © 2016 by Robert M. Solomon

Reflection - God in Pursuit (Links) - PART I-III, posted on Saturday, 10 August 2019
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2019/08/reflection-god-in-pursuit-links-part-i.html

"God in Pursuit" Lessons from the Book of Jonah, © 2016 by Robert M. Solomon

Reflection - God in Pursuit (Links) - PART IV, posted on Saturday, 10 August 2019
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2019/08/reflection-god-in-pursuit-links-part-iv.html

Reference

[1] From "Songs of Christmas", The Stories and Significance of 20 Well-Loved Carols, Copyright © 2017 by Robert M. Solomon, ISBN 978-981-11-6752-2, Chapter 18, "We Three Kings of Orient Are", Page 175-184.

[2] Worldometers, COVID-19 Coronavirus Pandemic, last updated on 24 March 2020 at 04:01 GMT, https://www.worldometers.info/coronavirus/

[7] Robert M. Solomon, Jesus and His Family: Portraits from the Bible (Singapore Armour Publishing, 2015).

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