Songs for our Savior: We Three Kings

We Three Kings

Matthew 2:1-12 Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the east came to Jerusalem, saying, “Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.” … And behold, the star that they had seen when it rose went before them until it came to rest over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy. And going into the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him. Then, opening their treasures, they offered him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh.

Lyrics

“We three kings of Orient are;

Bearing gifts we traverse afar,

Field and fountain, moor and mountain, following yonder star.

O star of wonder, star of light,

Star of royal beauty bright, Westward leading, still proceeding,

Guide us to thy perfect light."

“We Three Kings", also known as "We Three Kings of Orient Are" or "The Quest of the Magi", is a Christmas hymn that was penned by John Henry Hopkins Jr. in 1857… At the time of creating "We Three Kings," Hopkins worked as the pastor of Christ Episcopal Church in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, and he composed the hymn for a Christmas pageant in New York City… He designed the hymn in such a way that three male voices would each sing a particular verse by himself in order to resemble the three kings. The first and last verses of the carol are sung together by all three as "verses of praise", while the intermediate verses are sung exclusively with each king explaining the gift he was bringing. The refrain progresses to admire the majesty of the Star of Bethlehem. Now, though, the Magi's solos are usually not recognized when singing the carol. (Godtube.com/We Three Kings)

https://youtu.be/EJzaQxMa-U0

Heavenly Father,

What HOPE You bring with this anticipated birth of Your son. Just as these three kings recognized the significance of your son’s birth, may we approach this holiday season with the same excitement. A Savior is coming and how eternally grateful we are ! Bless His Holy Name . Amen