The Christian Church has observed the season of Epiphany since the third century A.D. The day of Epiphany always falls on January 6, but is generally celebrated on the first Sunday of the new year.
As Christmas marks the appearance of God to the human family in the person of Jesus Christ, the presence of the foreign Magi is symbolic that the one whom they sought as "King of the Jews" was "King of the Gentiles" as well. The visit of the Wise Men clearly indicates that it was the gentiles who were ultimately to receive the Gospel.
Little is written in Scripture about the Magi. The only account of their visit can be found in the second chapter of Matthew's Gospel. However, much tradition has surrounded them. Matthew does not give us their names and does not even specify how many there were. The number three has evolved because they bore three gifts.
It took some time for the early church to accept the fact that Jesus was not sent to the Jews exclusively. But once the church, at Paul's urging, understood the universal intention of God, it set into motion a mighty missionary effort which reached throughout the Roman Empire. The Good news which was shared with the Magi also extends to people of all nations, languages and colors.
In the midst of yet another Epiphany season, we are made starkly aware that the missionary task of the church remains unfinished. Despite centuries of history, there are people near and far who still await the bright light of Jesus Christ to break the darkness of their lives.