Revealing the Luck of the Wise

In western Christian tradition, the season of Christmastide (The 12 Days of Christmas) ends on January 5. And the season of Epiphany begins on January 6 with the Epiphany of the Lord.

The season of Epiphany is the third and final season in what is known as the Cycle of Light in the Christian Calendar.

Epiphany commemorates the coming of the Magi as the first manifestation of Christ to the Gentiles, or in the Eastern Church in commemoration of the baptism of Christ.

This manifestation (or appearing) demonstrates, celebrates and reminds Christians that the Good News of Christmas - God with us - is for "all nations" (peoples) -- not just for a privileged group but for everyone everywhere.

But regardless of one's religious beliefs -- or none at all -- there are life-enhancing insights revealed in the story of the Magi told in Matthew 2 -- if one is open to see(k)ing them.

Here are some to consider:

• The Magi, or Wise Men, were active seekers of new truths.

• They were diligent students in the sciences of their time.

• They were willing to risk potentially perilous journeys and go to places that were "foreign" to them in pursuit of their objectives.

• They were open to exploring new ideas.

• They were not passively waiting for a revelation or inspiration to hit them. They were actively pursuing and purposefully putting themselves in positions to enhance the probability they would discover new truth and experience new things.

These characteristics increased the opportunity for and likelihood of the Magi being successful in their endeavors. There were, indeed, wise men. And it paid off. They found what they were looking for.

You might say that the Magi were a living illustration of the saying attributed to the Roman philosopher, Seneca: “Luck Is What Happens When Preparation Meets Opportunity."

Consider adopting these characteristics of the Wise Men into your life, and see if you are empowered for more "luck" and greater success (fulfillment of your life purpose) in your personal relationships, in business, with your family.

Resources

If you're interested in more information about Epiphany in the western Christian tradition, go here