Those who traveled from the East to find baby Jesus have been called Wise Men, Magi, Kings.  They were watching the heavens, saw the star and followed it as it led the way to Jesus.  We are not certain how many there were, but the assumption has been three since three gifts are mentioned.

This painting entitled “Adoration of the Magi” is by Gentile da Fabriano (1420) and is located in the Uffizi Gallery in Florence, Italy.  At first glance it resembles a page out of “Where’s Waldo?”.  Can you find the dove, a spur, monkey, sword, the donkey?  (Tap on photo to enlarge).

Yet, even in the midst of all this incredible detail, the focus of the painting is clearly on Jesus and one of the Kings bowing before him.  The Wise Man appears to be kissing the baby’s foot.  Jesus has his hand stretched out and placed upon the head of the Wise Man, blessing him.  It is a poignant moment.  It is clear who is truly King! The next Wise Man is removing his crown in anticipation of his turn next.  He too can’t wait to bow down and receive his blessing.  The third Wise Man apparently just hopped off his horse as the servant is removing his spurs. The three Kings who have an entourage of servants accompanying them, become servants themselves suddenly and dramatically in their act of worship.  It would be a shocking statement.  The true power comes from the unexpected place.  The entire painting zeros in on that tiny touch of power and grace!

Here is another illustration by Stephen Lambert.  It shows a different perspective.  Here the Wise Men are deeply committed to a long and arduous search for the fulfillment of a long awaited prophecy.  Their journey is not easy, but they are on a mission.  The picture accompanies this poem…

And now a photo of three other “Wise Ones”….

My three little nieces!  If you were to listen closely to them you would find that they are very wise.  Children just seem to have a deeper “knowing”.

Questions to ponder…

Who do you consider to be a wise person and why?

Is there a time for you that seemed to be a long journey of searching?

Which picture of three Wise Ones do you like best and why?

nk