The Story Behind the Christmas StarOf all the assignments I received in Bible school, one has stayed with me more than any other.
My favorite instructor gave us a rather unusual assignment: go outside at night, lie beneath the stars, and meditate on the goodness of God.
No books to read. No papers to write. Just the night sky above us and time to consider the One who made it.
Somehow, that assignment made a deep impression on my soul. And I’ve never forgotten it.
I still enjoy looking at the night sky from time to time, although these days I’m more likely to stand outside and look up than lie on the ground.
There’s something about a sky filled with stars that puts everything else into perspective. The words of Psalm 19:1 come to mind:
“The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork.” — Psalm 19:1 (ESV)
Perhaps The Christmas Star will give you and your grandchild a reason to step outside, look up, and remember God’s goodness together.
One evening beneath the stars can become a memory that lasts a lifetime. Choose a little experience, a thoughtful gift, or a tradition to make your own.
A little experience to share
A thoughtful companion gift
A moment worth repeating
An Evening Beneath the Stars. Choose a clear night, wrap yourselves in something warm, and find a quiet place away from bright lights. Lie on a blanket or simply stand together and look up.
Read Psalm 19:1 aloud. Take time to notice the stars, the quiet, and the wonder of God’s creation. Before heading inside, ask each other:
“What does looking at the stars remind you about God?”
You don’t need a telescope, an app, or even a perfectly dark sky. Sometimes the most meaningful conversations begin with simply standing together and looking up.
Have you ever wondered what the wise men actually saw in the sky?
If you haven’t seen The Star of Bethlehem, a documentary presented by Rick Larson, you might want to. It explores that question through the biblical account, historical evidence, and astronomical software.
Though it has been a few years since we watched it, the assurance of God’s mighty work in the sky stays with us.
Discover What’s Above You — Sky View Lite.
Several years ago we attended a star party in Eugene, Oregon as guests. We were surprised at how many people were there. I remember seeing that red ring around Saturn for the first time. Club members brought their telescopes and generously invited visitors to look through them. One person had even built a telescope patterned after Galileo’s original design!
What I remember most, besides the remarkable views, was how friendly and knowledgeable the people were. They were happy to answer questions and share their knowledge.
Many communities have astronomy clubs that host public observing nights, or star parties. As far as I know, most of them are free and guests are welcome. Here’s a good place to look for a club: The Astronomical League might be a good place to find a star party near you.
If you’d rather explore the sky on your own, try Sky View Lite, a free iPhone and iPad app that helps identify stars, constellations, planets, and other objects.
The Night We Looked Up
Some of the loveliest family traditions don’t begin around a table. They begin when someone says, “Come outside and look at this!”
Choose one evening each Christmas season to look at the stars together.
Perhaps you’ll step outside after Christmas dinner, wrap yourselves in blankets, or return to the same spot year after year.
Notice the sky. Remember who is standing beside you. Share something you’re thankful for or a memory the stars have brought to mind.
Before going inside, take a photograph of the people who gathered or write a few words about the evening. Add the date, everyone’s names, and one little thing you want to remember.
Then tuck your photograph or handwritten note into The Gathering Box.
Over the years, you’ll be collecting more than memories of the night sky.
You’ll be preserving the stories of the people who stood beneath it together.