EP. 3: The Power of Three

Three is more than just a number; it’s a meaningful icon that carries significance across cultures, beliefs, and experiences. In expressing love, the phrase “I love you” captures the depth of one’s emotions in just three words. Sometimes, people find themselves identifying their favorites in threes, like their favorite songs, foods, colors—the list could go on. In Christian belief, there is also what is referred to as the Holy Trinity—the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Another would be the three theological virtues—the virtues that signify the power of three.

“On the third day of Christmas,

my true love gave to me

Three French hens.”

Many would think that this line heard in the famous Christmas carol, The Twelve Days of Christmas, symbolizes the Holy Trinity. While this could also be true, the birds from the song actually embody faith, hope, and love—virtues reflected in 1 Corinthians 13, the chapter written by the Apostle Paul. These virtues could be considered ingredients essential to life.

According to Rev. Joel Gaertner, the first virtue, faith, is often referred to as the heart of the Christian life. This is vital for our connection with God, opening our doors for His blessings and gifts that He wishes to bestow upon us. In the Bible, Hebrews chapter 11 is commonly dubbed the “hall of fame of faith,” which features various Biblical figures and their expressions of faith. It begins with a profound definition: “Faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see” (Hebrews 11:1).

Additionally, this highlights a fundamental aspect of the Christian faith—trusting in God even when life sometimes lacks clarity. Rev. Gaertner stated that some may criticize this and simply dismiss it as “blind faith,” but the Christian faith is far from that and is rooted in understanding.

The second virtue, hope, is a prominent theme throughout the Bible, appearing in both the Old and New Testaments. A notable passage that encapsulates this value is Romans 5:3-4, stating: “Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.” This serves as a reminder that hope can still flourish despite the storms in life that one has to conquer. That all will be alright in time, and there are still better days ahead of us.

Moreover, as we reflect on the suffering and challenges that life throws at us, we can see how these foster hope. When we put our faith in God and know that He has a purpose for our struggles, we will find the courage to hold on and endure. Ultimately, this strengthens our hope, firmly anchored in Him.

The third virtue, love, may have a long list of definitions, but for the Bible, it is not just a feeling; it is demonstrated by actions like God sending His son to save us on our behalf. The love of God for us is captured in a well-known verse, John 3:16, which states: “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”

So, as this ho-ho-holiday season unfolds, let us not forget to reflect on the true meaning behind this celebration, just as we enjoy the tradition of exchanging gifts with our loved ones. Looking back on the three virtues—faith, hope, and love—as explained by Rev. Joel Gaertner, we could say that truly, He is the reason for the season.