The three wise men

Yes, the Star of Bethlehem led three kings to the stable! They saw the Child Jesus, gave precious gifts and departed, carefully avoiding the evil minded Herod.

Scripture did not provide their names nor their number. However, some traditions regard them as saints and say they are three namely: Balthasar, Melchior and Gaspar. As regards where they came from, Encyclopedia Britannica states: "according to Western church tradition, Balthasar is often represented as a king of Arabia, Melchior as a king of Persia, and Gaspar as a king of India." 

Let us consider: what was the whole point of the kings traversing field and fountain, moor and mountain following the star? Was it all about presenting gifts and nothing else? Suppose one of them offered to take the Child away to his kingdom for safety given the warning in a dream about the danger posed by Herod. Suppose the kings came back regularly to check on Jesus. Suppose they later became the servants of the Lord of Lords. Suppose through their faithful service, the peoples of the three kingdoms were able to hear the Redeeming Word of Jesus direct from Him. Suppose the Message of Christ was embraced in the three kingdoms. Imagine the effect if Christ’s Message had come direct from Him 2000 years ago to the countries known today as Iran, Saudi Arabia and India!

The three kings were indeed led faithfully and brought face to face with the reason for which they were born unto the face of the earth: to serve the new born King and prepare His path with their wealth and power so that no harm might befall Him in the fulfillment of His Mission. Their failure in this regard actually changed the course of mankind’s history in the spiritual sense!

Let us therefore realise that it is our sacred duty to investigate why we are living on earth. We also should look inwards; consider our abilities and assess our circumstances carefully.  Soon we will gradually come to recognise our own purpose which will lead us to fulfillment if we are ardent in our seeking. We will then be doing the wise thing unlike the famous three who received enlightenment enabling them to find the Lord Jesus but failed to fully recognise their sublime call.