The Three Kings

Came those monarchs, grave and hoar, With their gifts, a goodly store, Gold and frankincense and myrrh, On that holy night of yore,— Ator, Sator, Sarasin, In their hallowed purpose kin, Following the guiding star, Each a sacred goal to win. Did they bear their offerings, Such a wealth of precious things, Unto one of princely place, Sprung, like them, from earthly kings? Nay, but to an infant born In a lowly spot forlorn Yet around whose glorious face Shone a halo like the morn! For a spirit unto each Spake in no uncertain speech, Saying, “In a manger lies One who God to man shall teach; One who shall the night o’erthrow, Bearing heaven with Him below,— Love that triumphs over hate, Peace and joy that conquer woe.” So those monarchs, men of fame, Bowed before Him, blessed His name, Laid their offerings at His feet, Passed as swiftly as they came. Stretch the years, a checkered chart, Since they played their deathless part, Yet to-day may we, like them, Giving, hold the Christ at heart.