A simple virgin girl, a village craftsman, a band of shepherds, angels, an evil king, a trio of mysterious wanderers from lands to the East, a young couple, librarians (scribes), an old couple—all take their places in the story of Christmas. Loads of characters. More than mentioned. We make songs for most of the parts or they themselves created poetry. "In the daily round of their lives, they portray simple, majestic scenes - parts of the long drama of His seeking for us -- seeking so that we too, may become a part of Christmas."*
Through oral tradition or by means of imagination we add to the Scripture-named-sheep; camels, donkeys, and cows. Culture added ships, silver bells, drummer boys, and food among so many other things.
All through the story is the heart of God the Father wanting to communicate with each and every character. Poor, rich, kingmaker, young, old, priests, all of Jerusalem -- pay attention I am sending Immanuel, Jesus the one who saves. So "Down the streets of time, He comes knocking at my door --and yours. Making it possible for our obedience and our praise, our wonder, our joy and our gifts to become a part of Christmas. Patiently across the centuries He walks, wanting to teach us all to sing -- the carols of Christmas."*
God still communicates today by stars, His Word, and through us. His Kingdom grows through our obedience.
Glenna and I have a favorite Christmas musical that we love to listen to and sing with each Christmas season. We actually sang in it back in our early years of marriage. Some of the above comments come from that musical. The lyrics of one song play through my mind this Christmas. The song titled "A Star Was Born". The last part of the song's lyrics are:
Hope was born one night in Bethlehem,
Hope was born for all mankind!
Just a tiny babe named Jesus,
But hope for now and all of time;
Hope for now and all of time.*
We rejoice in this hope, that without Christ's obedience, may never have been realized. We are thankful for the obedience of each of the characters of the Christmas story that make our obedience a little more attainable. Praise God that we at 4WRD can be obedient to God’s call due to your faithful support and prayers.
We are rejoicing with exceeding great joy! Merry Christmas!
Gary and Glenna
*"Noel Jesus is Born" By Lanny Wolfe, Don Marsh, and Bob Benson. The Benson Company Nashville, TN copyright 1979 by Lanny Wolfe Music.
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