The Story of
the Three Wise Men
Every
year, on the evening of January 5th, people remember the journey of the three
wise men. These men, often called the Magi, are named Melchior, Caspar, and
Balthazar. They come from distant lands, each bringing a unique gift to honour
a very special child. Melchior is an elderly man with a long white beard, and
he wears a golden robe that reflects his wealth and wisdom. Caspar, younger
than Melchior, has brown hair and a red cloak. Balthazar, with dark skin and a
green tunic, comes from a land far to the south. They travel across deserts and
mountains on camels, facing many challenges on their way.
The
wise men are guided by a brilliant star that appears suddenly in the sky. This
star shines brighter than any other, and it leads them towards Bethlehem. The
Magi believe the star marks the birth of a new king, one who will bring hope
and peace to the world. This king is baby Jesus, who is born in a humble
stable. His mother, Mary, and his father, Joseph, care for him with great love,
even though they have little to offer.
As
they journey, the wise men carry special gifts for the newborn king. Melchior
brings gold, a valuable metal that symbolises royalty and wealth. Caspar
carries frankincense, a fragrant resin used in religious ceremonies. Its sweet
scent represents prayer and worship. Balthazar brings myrrh, an expensive oil
often used in medicine and burial rituals, symbolising both healing and the
sacrifices that Jesus will make in his life.
After
a long and difficult journey, the three wise men finally arrive in Bethlehem.
They find Jesus lying in a manger, a simple feeding trough for animals. Despite
the humble surroundings, the wise men recognise that this child is no ordinary
baby. They kneel before him, presenting their gifts with great reverence and joy.
In that moment, they feel a deep sense of happiness and peace, knowing they are
in the presence of someone truly special.
Before
reaching Bethlehem, the wise men meet King Herod. Herod is a ruler who feels
threatened by the idea of a new king. He asks the wise men to return and tell
him where Jesus is, pretending that he wants to honour the child as well.
However, the wise men are warned in a dream not to trust Herod. After visiting
Jesus, they take a different route home, avoiding Herod and protecting the baby
from harm.
Today,
the story of the three wise men is celebrated in many countries around the
world. In some places, there are parades where people dress as the Magi and
re-enact their journey. Children leave their shoes by the door or windows, hoping
to find small gifts or sweets left by the wise men during the night. For many,
it is a time to reflect on generosity, kindness, and the importance of
following one’s faith.
The tale of the wise men reminds us of the value of perseverance and the joy of giving. It teaches that true greatness often comes in humble forms and that acts of kindness and faith can bring light to even the darkest times.
Questions
1. When
do people remember the journey of the three wise men?
2. What
are the names of the three wise men?
3. What
do the wise men ride on their journey?
4. What
guides the wise men to Bethlehem?
5. Why
do the wise men follow the star?
6. Where
is baby Jesus born?
7. What
does Melchior bring as a gift?
8. What
is frankincense, and who brings it?
9. What
does myrrh symbolise, and who carries it?
10. Where
do the wise men find Jesus?
11. How
do the wise men show respect to Jesus?
12. Why
do the wise men avoid King Herod on their way home?
13. How
do people celebrate the story of the wise men today?
14. What
do children hope to find in their shoes?
15. What
lessons does the story of the wise men teach?
