Children's Liturgy Series: The Epiphany of our Lord (Cycle C)

In today's Gospel we learn about how the three magi followed a star to find the baby Jesus and present Him with gifts.  The gifts show they recognized Him as a King.

Father in Heaven, we praise and glorify you. We thank you for bringing us together for this Children's Liturgy lesson.  Please send us the Holy Spirit, and fill us with peace, love, and wisdom.  Help us to understand the message you have for us today. Give us the courage to share this message with our friends and family. We ask all this in the name of Jesus. Amen.

When Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea, in the days of King Herod, behold, magi from the east arrived in Jerusalem, saying, "Where is the newborn king of the Jews? We saw his star at its rising and have come to do him homage." When King Herod heard this, he was greatly troubled, and all Jerusalem with him. 

Assembling all the chief priests and the scribes of the people, He inquired of them where the Christ was to be born. They said to him, "In Bethlehem of Judea, for thus it has been written through the prophet: And you, Bethlehem, land of Judah,are by no means least among the rulers of Judah;since from you shall come a ruler,who is to shepherd my people Israel." Then Herod called the magi secretly and ascertained from them the time of the star's appearance. He sent them to Bethlehem and said, "Go and search diligently for the child. When you have found him, bring me word, that I too may go and do him homage." After their audience with the king they set out. And behold, the star that they had seen at its rising preceded them, until it came and stopped over the place where the child was. They were overjoyed at seeing the star, and on entering the house they saw the child with Mary his mother. They prostrated themselves and did him homage. Then they opened their treasures and offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. And having been warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they departed for their country by another way.

1. Who were the Magi, and why did they come to visit Jesus?
2. What gifts did the Magi bring to Jesus, and what do these gifts represent?
3. How did the Magi find Jesus?
4. Why do you think King Herod was worried about the birth of Jesus?
5. What can we learn from the Magi's journey and their visit to Jesus? Discuss the lessons we can take from the Magi's faith, determination, and willingness to honor Jesus.
6. How can we "follow the star" in our own lives and seek Jesus?Encourage the children to think about ways they can seek and follow Jesus in their daily lives.
7. Why is the Epiphany an important event in the Christian calendar? Explain the significance of the Epiphany and how it shows that Jesus came for all people, not just a select few.
8. How can we share the light of Jesus with others, just like the star led the Magi to Him?Discuss practical ways the children can share Jesus' love and light with their friends and family.