Saint Who?
Saints Who Exemplify Devotion
to the Christ Child
The Magi
(† 1st century) Feast: January 6
Saint John Henry Newman once wrote that “the only display of royal greatness, the only season of majesty, homage, and glory, which our Lord had on earth, was in his infancy and youth.” The adoration of the Magi, with their kingly gifts, is a key moment in this period.
The Magi (whose names and number are matters of pious speculation) are thought to have been members of the priestly class of the Medes. Inspired by their astronomical observations, they traveled to Judea’s capital city to do homage to the newborn King. Their presence seems to have commanded a measure of respect, if not enthusiasm. The Jewish priests pointed the way accurately (though they did not care to follow it themselves). Herod felt compelled to hide his jealous fear of a new King behind a shallow excuse.
The wise men were undeterred when sent to a backwater destination. Arriving at a very ordinary scene—a mother holding her baby—they fell down in the homage of faith. “They did not find him commanding devils, or raising the dead,” as Saint Leo notes, but they recognized the “miracle of humility.” It did not matter that Jesus was poor and unrecognized by the world. They were honored to supply him with worship and gifts, and went home richer and wiser than they came: They departed for their country by another way (Mt 2:12).
Infant King, may we rejoice to lay our spiritual
and temporal riches at your feet.
