Have you ever wondered where the song “The Twelve Days of Christmas” came from? It’s fun to think of getting presents for 12 days in a row, especially in increasing measure like the song describes!
The twelve days begin with Christmas and end on Three Kings Day – or “Epiphany” – on January 6, when traditionally, the three wise men arrived to worship the Christ-child. Three Kings Day is most celebrated in Latin countries, where presents and fireworks shower down on everyone!
But there is a deeper meaning to the Magi’s visit than just gift-giving, as important as that is. When Christ was born in Bethlehem, the angels announced the birth to the shepherds, who then went around sharing what they had heard and seen. Israel’s Messiah had come! But the angels weren’t the only announcers: the heavens foretold the coming of the Messiah as well. Those that studied the night sky welcomed the news. A new king was to be born to the Jews, and they would travel far to worship him.
Jesus did not just come for the Jewish nation. Jesus came to establish a global, even a universal Kingdom. The visit of the Magi demonstrates this to us. The Kingdom of God is the Kingdom for all, and Jesus is its King. When he comes to reign, every eye will see him, every knee will bow, and every voice will proclaim him as Lord of all.
This year, don’t let Christmas end on the 25th of December. Celebrate the coming of Christ for the salvation of all and the establishment of his kingdom every day. Follow the example of the three kings as they sacrificed much to worship our king.
Get involved. Be Jesus to others. Live the Kingdom!