I love the story of the kings, or wise men, because it extends Christmas a little bit. The second chapter of Matthew tells of how they searched for the young Child and the text says they went into the house and worshiped Him. I don't know the period of time between the birth and the king's arrival, but they were still in Bethlehem. This doesn't ruin the story for me. It doesn't bother me that my manger scene has the kings in attendance. Who wants two scenes across the room from each other, one of the shepherds and one of the kings? The important thing is that both rich and poor, wise and simple worshipped the King. It's kind of neat how the traditional grouping represents everyone. Some of them have ethnic figures. All can be and are represented. Even a little shepherd boy could represent the children. Mary can represent the women since she was the first to adore Him.
I love that the kings outsmarted King Herod. I love how many dreams are involved in this whole nativity story, all to protect our wonderful Savior. I love that since the gifts came later, we can go into the new year and extend Christmas with our gifts of love and service. Christmas never truly ends. The story just goes on with all the wonderful things Jesus did and up to and through the cross. And finally we (in Acts and beyond) become a part of it. How I want to rejoice with all of this glorious Good News.
My heart's desire is that you may have a very blessed and Happy New Year! Nancy
Happy and blessed New Year to you too. :O)
ReplyDeletePraying you have an awesome New Year full of unexpected blessings!
ReplyDeleteHi Nancy -
ReplyDeleteHappy New Year!
Blessings,
Susan :)
Wow, I never thought of the fact that the wise kings outsmarted the evil king Herod. When God leads, we can be free of evil, too!
ReplyDeleteHappy and prosperous new year, dear,
Jen
Happy New Year to you as well! I love all the characters involved in the Christmas story and how all of us can relate to at least one of them!
ReplyDeleteGreat points! God is amazing in His Ways. ;-)
ReplyDeleteIt's always sad to see the season come to an end. I worked with a woman once who listened to Christmas songs year round because she said for her, celebrating Christ's birth was a year-long thing. I always thought that was a good idea.
ReplyDeleteit is an amazing story....like our Savior!
ReplyDeleteHappy New Year From Southern California.
ReplyDeleteDon't forget to watch the 122nd Rose Parade on New Year's Day coming from Pasadena, California...only 30 miles from The Old Geezer's home :-) If you miss the live telecast, I'm sure there will be lots of reruns through out the day.
No matter what looms ahead, if you can eat today, enjoy today, mix good cheer with friends today enjoy it and bless God for it. ~Henry Ward Beecher
May God Bless and Protect You in the Year to Come. ~Ron