The Fourth Wiseman never got to see Jesus

I saw this humorous farside post on another blog.

Unknown to most theologians, there was a fourth wiseman. He was sent away for bringing a fruitcake.



Speaking of the fourth wiseman, one of my favorite Christmas movies is "The Fourth Wiseman" starring Martin Sheen. Sheen plays Artaban, a young Magus (Wise Man) who desires to follow the star to the birthplace of the coming King, against the counsel of his friends and family. Carrying three precious jewels to give to the baby Messiah, Artaban and his reluctant servant Orontes set off to join the caravan of the three other wise men. They miss the caravan, but Artaban continues the search for his King, always one step behind. Artaban spends much of his remaining wealth and all of his energy helping the poor and unfortunate people he meets, until at the end of his life he finally finds Jesus--at His trial! Has Artaban wasted his life in a foolish quest? Will he ever get the chance to present his gifts to the King?

If you can find it, The fourth wiseman is a great way to be reminded of the true meaning of Christmas.

The Season of Giving (too much?)

Sometimes I really struggle with Christmas! I'm no Scrooge but I really can get caught up in the commercialism and focus on the wrong things. There's this internal struggle. Christmas is the season of giving, and I really do enjoy giving gifts to others, but how much is too much? When does our giving cross the line and become indulgence and sin?

Lord, help me not to cross the line!