There is a famous story “The Other Wise Man” written by Henry van Dyke in 1895. According to the author there was a fourth wise man, who wanted to go to Bethlehem with Gaspar, Melchior, and Balthazar to meet the new born king. His name was Artaban. Although Artaban agreed to join the caravan of the three wise men, he was late for the caravan (convoy) because he stopped to help a dying man on the way. Thus, Artaban decided to travel alone. Unfortunately, he missed
Jesus in Bethlehem. Artaban had a good heart and he could not pass by a person in need. It delayed his travel. The same happened on his journey to Egypt, and then to Nazareth. Artaban was delayed by many poor and crippled people on his way. His journey took Artaban thirty three years before he reached Jerusalem. In Jerusalem he met a prisoner who was sentenced to death. Artaban accompanied him up to his cross when he was crucified. Only then, Artaban recognized Jesus in that prisoner, the king of Israel who was born in Bethlehem, when Jesus quoted his gospel, “whatever you did for the least of my brothers and sisters, you did it to me” (Matthew 25:40). Artaban understood he had met Jesus many times during his journey.
“The Other Wise Man” is a beautiful story we usually talk about on the feast of Epiphany. This story has a meaningful message (moral) helpful not just for children.
Artaban dedicated his entire life and wealth to follow and find the Truth, Jesus Christ the great King. Through practicing his works of mercy he never lost his focus and goal. Artaban was faithful to the star, which led him toward the right direction and destiny.
Epiphany is a feast of the star, wise men and the truth, the ultimate Truth, which is Jesus Christ to us. Are we determined enough to seek and find the Truth in our life? Are we aware of the star each of us was given by God? It is so easy to be distracted and lose focus on our journey of life by short lasting pleasures, and shiny stars that lead to false truths. The feast of Epiphany, and example of Artaban, encourage us to continue our mission to find the Truth and reach the ultimate goal, which each of us received. Jesus was born two thousand years ago in Bethlehem but wise men still seek him. We can also find him today.
Happy Epiphany,
Fr. Andrzej