There is a lot that we can learn from the legend of the Three Wise Men who are said to have visited the Baby Jesus after he was born.
First of all, it is evidence that the message and meaning of Christmas is universal. Who were those three men who traveled from the East, following a star that led them to seek an event or person they considered extraordinary enough to make the journey? The scientists of that time from the Eastern regions were already advanced in mathematics, medicine and astronomy. It took the West a long time to catch up.
The gifts they brought were indications of their wisdom. Gold is always understood. But few understand the significance of Frankincense and Myrrh. Frankincense is derived as a resin from the Boswellia tree in India. It is a potent anti-inflammatory medicine, prized today for joints and pain-reduction.
Myrrh comes from a tree as a resin, also. It has been used as a medicine for centuries in the Middle East. Also anti-inflammatory, Myrrh is anti-viral, as well, and enjoyed a revival for the immune system in recent years.
Both of these precious medicines were very costly two thousand years ago. They were truly gifts in keeping with the gold that was the third gift. So the Wise Men were wise enough to know that natural medicine is a precious commodity and the gift of health as important as wealth.
These Wise Men weren't Christian or Jewish. Judaism dates back to the Bronze Age (3300-1200 BC.) The Islamic religion was started in the 7th Century. Pre-Islamic Arabia practiced polytheism and Zoroastrianism, a monotheistic religion from Persia that featured a benevolent God fighting an evil spirit. Followers of the prophet Zoroaster were encouraged to think good thoughts, do good deeds, and resist evil.
So, many religious traditions came together around the birth of Christianity. The Christmas message of hope, renewal, redemption, peace and spirituality is universal.
The Wise Men did not let religious differences stop them from following a star that might lead to greater understanding of their world.
And they knew that gold without good health won't buy the happiness and bright future that we hope for.
So, with all the usual wishes for a Happy Holiday and Merry Christmas, I wish you lasting Health for this year and beyond.
