In this contemplative episode, we pray with Hossein Behzad’s The Birth of Jesus (also known as The Adoration of the Wise Men). This Persian miniature invites an intimate encounter with the Magi and their offerings. Through guided reflection, scripture, and prayer, we consider how our own hearts become the gifts we bring in adoration.

In the Bleak Midwinter -- Carol

Use this guide for prayer and contemplation. Read slowly, pausing as needed for silence and reflection.

Opening

Settle into a comfortable position.

Let your shoulders drop, and unclench your hands.

Breathe deep.

Let us open ourselves now to God’s presence.

Reflection on Contemplative Prayer

Gift-giving is part of human nature. We long to express love and devotion through things that are meaningful and symbolic—sometimes even useful.

Perhaps we give gifts because we are created in the image of God—and God is the ultimate giver of gifts, giving life and sustenance not only to us, but to the whole immensity of creation.

As we enter contemplation today, let us begin by focusing on the gifts the Magi bring. These gifts are not given randomly. Each has a purpose, and they invite us to consider what purposeful gift we might bring as we come in adoration of Christ.

Text for Reflection

[Text source: Bernard of Clairvaux]
For by gold the power of a king is signified, by frankincense the honor of God, and by myrrh the burial of the body. And accordingly, they offer God gold as king, frankincense as God, myrrh as human.

[Text source: “In the Bleak Midwinter”]
What can I give him, poor as I am?
If I were a shepherd, I would bring a lamb.
If I were a wise one, I would do my part.
Yet what I can give him—give him my heart.

Holy Spirit, be near as we listen and as we look. Let this wisdom about the gifts open our hearts to Christ, here and now.

Artwork for Prayerful Reflection

The Birth of Jesus (also known as The Adoration of the Wise Men) — Hussein Behzad

This work was made as a miniature on paper—something to be held in your hands, inviting a personal experience up close.

As you gaze, take in the whole scene, and then its small details.

Notice the green and the flowers—so different from the bleak midwinter many artists imagine. In this place, let the image whisper of life and rebirth in Christ.

Stay here a moment.

Reflection Questions

As you look at the painting, what details do you notice first?

What do the greens, flowers, and signs of life awaken in you today?

What might Christ be bringing to life in you—or rebirthing in you—right now?

When you hear these words—“What can I give him, poor as I am? Yet what I can give him—give him my heart.”—what thoughts or feelings rise within you?

As you consider the gifts of the Magi—gold, frankincense, and myrrh—what purpose do you sense in each one?

Imagine yourself kneeling with the Magi. What gift have you brought to Christ?

What does that gift symbolize—your love, your longing, your gratitude, your need?

What do you want to say to Christ as you offer your gift?

Listen with your heart for Christ’s words to you as Christ receives what you bring. What else does Christ have to say to you today?

Look back at the whole scene. What further thoughts or feelings come to you as you look—and what does God say about these?

Closing

Christ, beloved and worthy of our adoration, receive what we bring—gold and frankincense and myrrh, and also the simple gift of our hearts. May all our gifts come from love, and may they please the One we adore, on bended knee. Amen.