What Child Is This?

As the early church sought to celebrate Jesus’ birth, a day was set aside to commemorate the coming of the magi to bring Him gifts. This day was celebrated because it demonstrated that Jesus came to save the world.

The day came to be called “Epiphany,” and it was celebrated 12 days after Christmas. Various traditions developed around this celebration, many of which focused on the magi and the giving of gifts.

Epiphany provided particular inspiration for William Dix, who was born in 1837 in Bristol, England. As a young man, Dix became ill and, during his recovery, he studied the New Testament carefully. He became fascinated with the magi. However, the more he studied, the more he felt that too many Christians focused on these men rather than on Jesus. His conviction inspired him to write the hymn we know as “What Child Is This?”

In this hymn, Dix pointed us toward Jesus: “What Child is this who, laid to rest, on Mary’s lap is sleeping? Whom angels greet with anthems sweet, while shepherds watch are keeping?” Dix wanted those that sang his song to focus on Jesus. For He was “Christ the King, whom shepherds guard and angels sing.”

In your life, use this Epiphany Day to help you think about what Jesus has done for you. As Dix realized, Jesus died that we might be freed from sin. What offering would be appropriate to give to the One who changed your life and gave you hope, freedom, and victory?

Today, “bring Him incense, gold and myrrh,” and “enthrone Him” as the king in your heart.