JOYFUL PIECE #80

The three kings visit

Yesterday marked four years since an egotistical former POTUS with dictatorial tendencies tried to extend his power over us ad infinitum by promoting insurrection among his acolytes.

In sharp contrast, yesterday was also the feast of the Magi in some Christian circles. My Nativity set has those figures that memorialize the story of that arduous and dangerous journey undertaken long ago that culminated in arriving before a defenseless child resting in a manger. It resonates with humanity’s eternal search for truth and meaning in its existence.

They seem well off, as revealed by the valuable gifts that they carried— three “kings” or three “magi”— men of wisdom. Why undertake such a journey? It is written that they followed a star. Were they looking for guidance and illumination? Were they pondering the perennial questions of who we are, why we are, and what is the meaning of it all? Whatever the answer, they arrived at the outskirts of the inconsequential (for the moment) village of Bethlehem to gaze on a newborn child resting in a feeding trough for livestock.

The example of men of means humbling themselves before Jesus, Mary, and Joseph in such simple surroundings is impressive. They apparently came from different corners of the world in unity of purpose to be of service to a defenseless baby in a land of violence and oppression under the Roman Empire. Each brought a unique gift.

The power of example is manifested in the magi. The ostentation, power, and wealth embodied by Herod and Caesar, gives way to an act of service to the defenseless in the name humility, love, and compassion. Kelley Nikondehas’ meditation drives this home for me. Is that not compelling? What would our society be like if we were all moved to act in that spirit?

Joy is staying grounded in the true wealth of humility, love, and compassion.

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