The Epiphany of the Lord
The adoration of the Magi is unique. It does not seem that anyone had come from their lands to pay homage to Herod or any of his predecessors. Also, why do so to a newborn? It seems that in the usual lives of kings, they receive homage at their coronation (which for some does not happen until they are quite old).
But this king is adored as a newborn baby. This king is adored when so many other kings had been overlooked. This king is honored with gifts that are fit not only for a king (such as gold), but also for a sacrifice (myrrh) and even for God (incense). This king is the fulfillment of the prophecies of Isaiah and the Psalmist.
As we finish the Christmas season meditating on the adoration which the newborn Christ is given, imagining these great and wealthy rulers flat on their faces before this baby, we can begin to consider what regard we have for Christ. What will we offer to Him that says something about us and something about Him?