Growing up, we always left our Christmas tree up through Epiphany (January 6th). I could never fully understand why. For a young child, Christmas was over after the 25th. However, now that I’m older I have a better grasp of the essence of Epiphany. And it’s important that we continue to share the importance of Christ’s birth with our children. Check out some of my observations about the essence of Epiphany below.
1. Epiphany reminds us wait and look ahead.
Advent provides us a time to wait for the coming of Christ on Earth; however, Epiphany also serves as a reminder that the wise men had to wait to see Jesus after He was born. Even after Christ was born, the wise men journeyed across lands to worship Christ.
2. Christ came for all.
The wise men represented the first gentiles’ visit to Jesus. Although born King of the Jews, Jesus came to Earth to serve God’s people, ultimately die for our sins on the cross, and conquer death in His resurrection. Christ died for all who have sinned, so Christ came to Earth for all (Romans 3:23)
3. Bring your best for Christ. 
The wise men brought Jesus gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. As an item often reserved for royalty in Jesus’ day, the gift of gold depicted wealth, prominence and extravagance. The wise men brought their best for Christ, which we do today out of gratitude and reverence but not out of guilt nor to earn His favor.
4. Christ is King.
Part of Merriam-Webster’s dictionary meaning of Epiphany is “an appearance or manifestation especially of a divine being.” Christ came to Earth fully human, yet also fully divine. Although our finite minds can’t completely grasp that concept and its complexity, the fact remains that Christ is King and reigns in our lives.
These are just a few areas I have reflected upon regarding Epiphany. You may have more and I’d love to hear them below. Don’t forget to take time this new year to experience the joys of Epiphany with your kids.
I’ve created Experiencing Epiphany, as a way to walk through 6 interactive days of exploring the wise men’s journey to visit Jesus. Click HERE to purchase the devotional as a PDF download that you can print (It is also available at Amazon.com). Enjoy continuing the Christmas celebration with your kids and family.
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