And the king will answer them, “Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me. Matthew 25:40

Each Christmastide I reread Henry Van Dyke’s captivating story, “The Other Wise Man,” which was originally published in 1927. The story tells of another wise man, not recounted in Matthew, who sold his possessions to acquire three precious stones—a ruby, a sapphire, and a pearl. These he intended to present to the King of Israel whose advent had been foretold in the stars. What happens to this wise man on his journey and what he does with the precious stones is the overarching theme of the story.

Each Christmas this tale reminds me that God has a way of taking us out of ourselves, of helping us to see Christmas as a reminder that each and every one of us is a child of God. So be ready this Christmas to have your memory refreshed. Everyone you see, everyone you encounter, everyone you would rather not be around is loved and cared for by God every bit as much as you are.

Have you ever wondered what Mary and Joseph did with the gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh? After you read “The Other Wise Man,” I think you will have some idea.

De Calvert

About the Contributor

De Calvert is a Ruling Elder and a gofer for the Flower Guild.