In Christian tradition, where the birth of Christ is celebrated on December 25, the arrival of the Magi is celebrated on January 6, called the Feast of Epiphany. This feast is in Eastern Christianity celebrated with more magnificent festivities and church services than 25 December. It was originally within Christianity the day of the giving of presents, following the example of the Magi. This tradition is upheld in Spanish speaking countries and in the Eastern Church. It is only in recent years that the Epiphany was again included in the liturgies and celebrations of some branches of the Western Church, and particularly the Protestant churches.
Epiphany - sometimes also called "Little Christmas" is considered the day when the Messiah was revealed to the Gentiles, while Christmas, the birthday, is considered the day when Jewish believers, such as the shepherds, worshipped the new born King. This is why amongst Gentiles in the East, it became an important day of remembrance and celebration of an “epiphany” of the meaning of the light and love of Christ for the gentile nations.
The twelfth day of Christmas is therefore the Eve of Epiphany.
For most of us the twelfth day of Christmas is the day when decorations are packed away and when we “leave” the contemplation of the meaning of the birthday of Christ, expecting an epiphany of the glory of the Son of God, as it was revealed to his followers through his miracles, parables and other teachings! The real, complete and final epiphany of the glory of Christ comes only when we remember his suffering, and his glorious resurrection during Lent and Easter.
The 12th day of Christmas is a day when we pray that Jesus will not leave us, but show us the fullness of his glory, through his kindness and his victory!
Here follows a prayer for the Eve of Epiphany:
O Lord God of love, where ever I may go,
may your gracious mercy overflow.
Listen to my plea, Lord, listen to my praise,
will adore you all my days.
God of love, your mercy is untainted pure,
with your help and care I am secure.
Never, never leave me, bless me gracious Lord
and never let me go.
Lord let me never, never go.
Let now your power vibrantly show.
For every knee shall bow and every heart rejoice:
Lord Jesus, listen to my plea.
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