Welcome to Day 2313 of Wisdom-Trek, and thank you for joining me. This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom Wisdom Nuggets – Proverbs 25:15-21 Daily Wisdom Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script - Day 2313 Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2313 of our Trek. The Purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before.   In today’s Wisdom Nugget, I will guide you through the vast landscapes of biblical wisdom. It’s a pleasure to have you join me today as we explore Proverbs 25:15-21 from the New Living Translation. In these verses, we’ll uncover insights into the value of patience and perseverance, the importance of gentle words in difficult situations, and the transformative power of kindness and generosity. Reflect… So, without further ado, let’s dive into the wisdom of Proverbs. Verses 15-16: “Patience can persuade a prince, and soft speech can break bones. Do you like honey? Don’t eat too much, or it will make you sick!” These verses highlight the persuasive power of patience and the impact of gentle words, using the analogy of honey to illustrate moderation in speech. How can we apply the principles of patience, moderation, and gentle speech in our interactions with others? Recognize the persuasive power of patience and the impact of gentle words in diffusing conflicts and fostering understanding. Choose to cultivate patience in your interactions, knowing that it has the potential to persuade even the most powerful individuals. Additionally, practice moderation in your speech, using gentle words that have the power to break down barriers and build bridges. Cultivate a heart that is characterized by patience, moderation, and gentle speech, knowing that these qualities have the power to transform relationships and bring about reconciliation. Reflect… Now, let’s explore verse 17. “Don’t visit your neighbors too often, or you will wear out your welcome.” This verse offers practical wisdom on maintaining healthy boundaries in relationships and avoiding overbearing behavior. How can we understand the importance of maintaining balance and respecting boundaries in our relationships? Recognize the importance of respecting boundaries and maintaining balance in your relationships. Choose not to overstep boundaries or impose on others, understanding that doing so can strain relationships and lead to discomfort. Instead, cultivate a mindset of sensitivity and discernment, knowing when to give others space and when to engage in meaningful interaction. Cultivate a heart that values balance and respects the boundaries of others, fostering healthy and harmonious relationships. Reflect… Verses 18-19 continue with reflections on the transformative power of kindness and generosity. “Telling lies about others is as harmful as hitting them with an ax, wounding them with a sword, or shooting them with a sharp arrow. Putting confidence in an unreliable person in times of trouble is like chewing with a broken tooth or walking on a lame foot.” These verses emphasize the harm caused by deceitful words and unreliable individuals, using vivid imagery to illustrate their destructive nature. How can we understand the importance of...

Welcome to Day 2310 of Wisdom-Trek, and thank you for joining me. This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom Wisdom Nuggets – Proverbs 25:8-14 Daily Wisdom Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script - Day 2312 Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2312 of our Trek. The Purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before.   In today’s Wisdom Nugget, I will guide you through the vast landscapes of biblical wisdom. I’m thrilled to have you with me today as we unpack Proverbs 25:8-14 from the New Living Translation. In these verses, we’ll uncover insights into the importance of exercising discretion in conflict resolution, the value of speaking truth in love, and the refreshing effect of wisdom on those who listen. Reflect… So, without further delay, let’s venture into the wisdom of Proverbs. Verses 8-10: “Don’t be in a hurry to go to court. Legal battles can cost you dearly, and you may lose your case before the judge. So, settle your differences quickly while you are still together in front of the judge. Otherwise, your accuser may hand you over to the judge, who will hand you over to an officer, and you will be thrown into prison.” These verses advise against rushing into legal disputes and emphasize the importance of resolving conflicts amicably before they escalate. How can we apply the principle of settling differences quickly and avoiding unnecessary legal battles? Recognize the wisdom in avoiding hasty legal disputes and prioritize resolving conflicts amicably. Choose to seek reconciliation and mediation, rather than allowing disputes to escalate into costly legal battles. Cultivate a mindset of patience and humility in resolving conflicts, understanding that peace and harmony are worth pursuing at all costs. Reflect… Now, let’s delve into verse 11. “Timely advice is lovely, like golden apples in a silver basket.” This verse praises the beauty and value of timely advice, likening it to golden apples displayed in a silver basket. How can we appreciate the beauty and value of timely advice in our lives? Recognize the beauty and value of timely advice in guiding and shaping our lives. Choose to appreciate and seek out wise counsel from trusted sources, knowing that timely advice can offer clarity and direction in times of uncertainty. Cultivate a heart that is receptive to wisdom and open to learning from others, understanding that timely advice can be a precious gift that enriches our journey. Reflect… Now, let’s explore verse 12. “To one who listens, valid criticism is like a gold earring or other gold jewelry.” This verse emphasizes the value of receiving constructive criticism with a receptive heart, likening it to precious gold jewelry. How can we embrace the refreshing effect of wisdom found in constructive criticism? Recognize the refreshing effect of wisdom found in constructive criticism. Choose to receive valid criticism with humility and gratitude, understanding that it has the potential to refine and enrich our character. Cultivate a heart that is open to feedback and committed to growth, knowing that embracing constructive criticism is a pathway to greater wisdom and maturity....

Welcome to Day 2311 of Wisdom-Trek. Thank you for joining me. This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom The Characters of Christmas-10  The Oldest Bucket List: Simeon and Anna – Daily Wisdom Putnam Church Message – 12/31/2023 The Characters of Christmas – The Oldest Bucket List: Simeon and Anna Last week, during our blessed Christmas Eve service, we looked at The Misfits of Christmas with Tamar, Rahab, Bathsheba, and Ruth and came to the understanding that in Christ, we are all designed to bring others into the Kingdom of God through Jesus Christ our Savior. This week, as we reflect back on 2023 and look forward with hope and anticipation to 2024, we will look into the lives of two devout persons who have been waiting all of their lives for the coming Messiah in a message titled, The Oldest Bucket List: Simeon and Anna. Today's scripture passage is Luke 2:21-38 on pages 1591-1592, in your Pew Bibles. 21 On the eighth day, when it was time to circumcise the child, he was named Jesus, the name the angel had given him before he was conceived. Jesus Presented in the Temple 22 When the time came for the purification rites required by the Law of> Moses, Joseph and Mary took him to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord 23 (as it is written in the Law of the Lord, “Every firstborn male is to be consecrated to the Lord”[a]), 24 and to offer a sacrifice in keeping with what is said in the Law of the Lord: “a pair of doves or two young pigeons.”[b] 25 Now there was a man in Jerusalem called Simeon, who was righteous and devout. He was waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was on him. 26 It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not die before he had seen the Lord’s Messiah. 27 Moved by the Spirit, he went into the temple courts. When the parents brought in the child Jesus to do for him what the custom of the Law required, 28 Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying: 29 “Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you may now dismiss[c] your servant in peace. 30 For my eyes have seen your salvation, 31     which you have prepared in the sight of all nations: 32 a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of your people Israel.” 33 The child’s father and mother marveled at what was said about him. 34 Then Simeon blessed them and said to Mary, his mother: “This child is destined

Welcome to Day 2310 of Wisdom-Trek, and thank you for joining me. This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom Wisdom Nuggets – Proverbs 25:1-7 Daily Wisdom Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script - Day 2310 Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2310 of our Trek. The Purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before.   In today’s Wisdom Nugget, I will guide you through the vast landscapes of biblical wisdom. It’s a joy to have you join me on this adventure today as we explore Proverbs 25:1-7 from the New Living Translation. In these verses, we’ll uncover insights into the value of hidden wisdom, the honor of kings in searching out truth, and the removal of impurities to reveal the pure gold within. Reflect… Let’s head out and embark on our journey through the wisdom of Proverbs. Verse 1: “These are more proverbs of Solomon, collected by the advisers of King Hezekiah of Judah.” This verse sets the stage for a collection of additional proverbs attributed to Solomon, gathered during the reign of King Hezekiah. How can we understand the value of hidden wisdom contained within these proverbs? Recognize the significance of the wisdom contained within these proverbs, handed down through generations. Choose to delve into their depths, understanding that hidden wisdom holds great treasure for those who seek it. Cultivate a thirst for knowledge and insight, knowing that wisdom is a precious gem waiting to be discovered. Reflect… Now, let’s turn our attention to verses 2-3. “It is God’s privilege to conceal things and the king’s privilege to discover them. No one can comprehend the height of heaven, the depth of the earth, or all that goes on in the king’s mind!” These verses highlight the privilege of kings to search out truth and the unfathomable mysteries of creation. How can we appreciate the honor bestowed upon kings to seek out truth and understanding? Recognize the honor bestowed upon kings to search out truth and understanding. Choose to emulate their pursuit of wisdom, actively seeking knowledge and insight in all areas of life. Cultivate a mindset of curiosity and exploration, understanding that the pursuit of truth leads to enlightenment and growth. Reflect… Verse 4-5 continues with reflections on removing impurities to reveal the pure gold within. “Remove the impurities from silver, and the sterling will be ready for the silversmith. Remove the wicked from the king’s court, and his reign will be made secure by justice.” These verses draw a parallel between refining silver and removing wickedness from the king’s court. How can we understand the importance of removing impurities to ensure justice and security? Ensure Justice and Security: Recognize the importance of removing impurities to ensure justice and security. Choose to uphold righteousness and integrity in all areas of life, knowing that removing wickedness strengthens the foundation of society. Cultivate a commitment to justice, actively working to remove corruption and injustice from your sphere of influence. Reflect… Now, let’s explore verses 6-7. “Don’t demand an audience with the king or...

Welcome to Day 2309 of Wisdom-Trek. Thank you for joining me. This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom - The Characters of Christmas-9 The Misfits of Christmas – Daily Wisdom Putnam Church Message – 12/24/2023 The Characters of Christmas – The Misfits of Christmas Last week, we looked at the dark side of Christmas Characters as we analyzed Herod, the Monster of Christmas. This week will be a short message as we look at The Misfits of Christmas. I will read part of three verses from the genealogy of Jesus from Matthew Matthew 1, on page 1496, in your Pew Bibles. 3 Judah was the father of Perez and Zerah (whose mother was Tamar). 5 Salmon was the father of Boaz (whose mother was Rahab). Boaz was the father of Obed (whose mother was Ruth). 6 David was the father of Solomon (whose mother was Bathsheba, the widow of Uriah). I want to highlight four characters from Jesus' family tree that illustrate the upside-down nature of the kingdom of God. All of them are women, which is remarkable in and of itself. Jesus’s life and ministry were focused on lifting the oppressed. All are equal before God. As Galatians 3:28 tells us: There is no longer Jew or Gentile, slave or free, male and female. For you are all one in Christ Jesus.   Typically, Jewish genealogies didn't mention women. They only ever listed men as the heads of their households. Women in the ancient world had little agency and virtually no voice. So, in telling the Christmas story through women like Mary, Elizabeth, and Anna (which we will study next week), Jesus tells us that His kingdom is different. And even in this small and seemingly insignificant detail of listing four women in Jesus' family tree, Matthew is communicating something powerful.   It reminds me of the Christmas cartoon Rudolf the Red Nose Reindeer, where they come across the Island of Misfit Toys. You remember Charlie in the Box. What is the meaning of the Island of Misfit Toys? It is not unlike the story of Christmas.   As the story goes on, this menagerie of misfit toys bands together and saves Christmas for the children of the world. The Biblical principle of the story is that no matter how atypical you are, you are valuable in God’s eyes and within the church. Together, we can accomplish what seems impossible.   To fully grasp these misfits in our passage today, we must understand how poorly women were regarded in the first century. A woman had no legal rights and was utterly subject to her husband's power. According to New Testament scholar Michael Green, a Jewish man “thanked God each day that he had not been created a slave, a Gentile, or a woman.”   To put it bluntly, Matthew would be scandalous to put these women's names here. And these weren't just any women. Each one of them carried with them a stigma, an asterisk next to their name every time a faithful Jewish person heard their name read out loud in the temple or the synagogue.   The Forgotten Tamar is a name most Jewish people likely wanted to forget. It is an interesting story, but we will leave out most details for tonight's message. And yet here she is,/ in Genesis 38, /first as the wife of a man named...

Welcome to Day 2308 of Wisdom-Trek, and thank you for joining me. This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom Wisdom Nuggets – Proverbs 24:23-34 Daily Wisdom Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script - Day 2308 Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2308 of our Trek. The Purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before.   In today’s Wisdom Nugget, I will guide you through the vast landscapes of biblical wisdom. It’s a pleasure to have you with me today as we explore Proverbs 24:23-34 from the New Living Translation. In these verses, we’ll discover insights into the importance of impartiality in judgment, the dangers of laziness, and the value of diligent work. Reflect… So strap on your hiking boots and delve into Proverbs’s wisdom. Verses 23-25: “These also are sayings of the wise. To show partiality in judging is not good: Whoever says to the guilty, ‘You are innocent,’ will be cursed by peoples and denounced by nations. But it will go well with those who convict the guilty, and rich blessing will come on them.” These verses emphasize the importance of impartiality in judgment, warning against showing favoritism to the guilty. How can we apply the principle of impartiality in our interactions and judgments? Recognize the wisdom in avoiding partiality when judging others. Choose to uphold justice and fairness in all your interactions, refusing to show favoritism to the guilty. Cultivate a mindset that values honesty and integrity, knowing that impartiality leads to rich blessings. Reflect… Now, let’s explore verses 26-27. “An honest answer is like a kiss of friendship. Do your planning and prepare your fields before building your house.” These verses highlight the importance of honesty and diligence in planning and preparation. How can we understand the value of honesty and diligence in our relationships and endeavors? Recognize the value of honesty in fostering genuine friendships. Choose to provide honest answers in your interactions, knowing that they strengthen relationships. Additionally, prioritize diligence in planning and preparation, understanding that thorough groundwork leads to successful endeavors. Cultivate a mindset that values honesty and diligence, ensuring meaningful connections and fruitful outcomes. Reflect… Verse 28 continues with reflections on the consequences of bearing false witness. “Don’t testify against your neighbors without cause; don’t lie about them.” This verse cautions against bearing false witness or spreading lies about others without valid cause. How can we avoid the temptation to bear false witness against others? Recognize the harm caused by spreading lies about others without valid cause. Choose not to participate in bearing false witness against your neighbors, upholding the importance of truth and integrity in your speech. Cultivate a habit of speaking truthfully and refrain from spreading rumors or falsehoods that could harm others. Pause… Verses 29-30 introduce reflections on the consequences of laziness. “Don’t say, ‘I will do to them...

Welcome to Day 2307 of Wisdom-Trek, and thank you for joining me. This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom Wisdom Nuggets – Proverbs 24:15-22 Daily Wisdom Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script - Day 2307 Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2307 of our Trek. The Purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before.   In today’s Wisdom Nugget, I will guide you through the vast landscapes of biblical wisdom. It’s a delight to have you with me on this journey. Today, our exploration takes us into the profound verses of Proverbs 24:15-22 from the New Living Translation. As we delve into these verses, let’s seek the timeless wisdom that can guide us in understanding the adversity faced by the righteous, recognizing the consequences of wickedness, and discovering the value of justice. Reflect… Without further delay, strap on your boots, and let’s dive into the wisdom of Proverbs. Verses 15-16: “Don’t lie in wait like an outlaw against a righteous man’s house, and don’t raid his dwelling place. Though a righteous person may fall seven times, he gets up again, but the wicked will stumble into ruin.” These verses portray the challenges the righteous face, urging them not to lie in wait against the homes of the just. The righteous rise again despite their falls, while the wicked face inevitable ruin. How can we understand the adversity faced by the righteous and the consequences that await the wicked? Face Adversity with Resilience: Recognize the challenges faced by the righteous and the importance of not plotting against them. Choose to embody the resilience of the righteous, understanding that, despite falls, they rise again. Cultivate a mindset that refuses to be defeated by adversity, trusting in the strength that comes from a righteous life. Reflect… Now, let’s turn our attention to verse 17. “Don’t rejoice when your enemies fall; don’t be happy when they stumble.” This verse offers a cautionary message against finding joy in the misfortune of others, even if they are considered enemies. How can we avoid the trap of rejoicing in the misfortune of our enemies? Avoid Rejoicing in the Misfortune of Others: Recognize the caution against finding joy in the stumbling of enemies. Choose not to derive happiness from the misfortune of others, even those considered adversaries. Cultivate a heart that embodies empathy and compassion, understanding that true wisdom transcends personal conflicts and seeks the well-being of all. Reflect… Verse 18 introduces reflections on the consequences awaiting the wicked. “For the Lord sees clearly what a person does, examining every path he takes.” This verse emphasizes the divine scrutiny over the actions and paths of individuals, underlining the accountability before the Lord. How can we recognize the consequences of wickedness and the accountability for our actions before the Lord? Acknowledge Divine Scrutiny and Accountability: Recognize the divine scrutiny over your actions, understanding that the Lord sees clearly every path you take. Choose to acknowledge the accountability before the Lord for your choices and behaviors. Cultivate a lifestyle that aligns with righteousness,...

Welcome to Day 2306 of Wisdom-Trek. Thank you for joining me. This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom The Characters of Christmas-8  Herod, The Monster of Christmas – Daily Wisdom Putnam Church Message – 12/17/2023 The Characters of Christmas – Herod, the Monster of Christmas Last week, we went on a two-year expedition as we traveled with a caravan of visitors from the east in a message titled,  Seeking and Finding: The Wise Men This week, we will look at the dark side of Christmas Characters as we analyze,  Herod, the Monster of Christmas. Let’s read Matthew 2:13-23, starting on page 1498, in your Pew Bibles. The Escape to Egypt 13 When the wise men had gone, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream. “Get up,” he said, “take the child and his mother and escape to Egypt. Stay there until I tell you, for Herod is going to search for the child to kill him.” 14 So he got up, took the child and his mother during the night and left for Egypt, 15 where he stayed until the death of Herod. And so was fulfilled what the Lord had said through the prophet: “Out of Egypt I called my son.”[c] 16 When Herod realized that he had been outwitted by the Magi, he was furious, and he gave orders to kill all the boys in Bethlehem and its vicinity who were two years old and under, in accordance with the time he had learned from the Magi. 17 Then what was said through the prophet Jeremiah was fulfilled: 18 “A voice is heard in Ramah, weeping and great mourning, Rachel weeping for her children and refusing to be comforted, because they are no more.”[d] The Return to Nazareth 19 After Herod died, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt 20 and said, “Get up, take the child and his mother and go to the land of Israel, for those who were trying to take the child’s life are dead.” 21 So he got up, took the child and his mother and went to the land of Israel. 22 But when he heard that Archelaus was reigning in Judea in place of his father Herod, he was afraid to go there. Having been warned in a dream, he withdrew to the district of Galilee, 23 and he went and lived in a town called Nazareth. So was fulfilled what was said through the prophets, that he would be called a Nazarene. Every year at this time, our family, as many do, likes to gather around the TV and watch our favorite Christmas movies. Perhaps our favorite is It’s a Wonderful Life, followed closely by A Muppets Christmas Carol, but I also enjoy several other versions of it.  A Christmas Carol is like several Christmas stories...

Welcome to Day 2305 of Wisdom-Trek, and thank you for joining me. This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom Wisdom Nuggets – Proverbs 24:8-14 Daily Wisdom Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script - Day 2305 Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2305 of our Trek. The Purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before.   In today’s Wisdom Nugget, I will guide you through the vast landscapes of biblical wisdom. It’s a pleasure to have you with me on this journey. Today, our exploration takes us into the insightful verses of Proverbs 24:8-14 from the New Living Translation. As we delve into these verses, let’s seek the timeless wisdom that can guide us in discerning the consequences of wicked schemes, valuing wisdom’s benefits, and understanding the impact of our actions on the future. Reflect… Without further delay, let’s dive into the wisdom of Proverbs. Verse 8: “A person who plans evil will get a reputation as a troublemaker.” This verse warns against the consequences of devising wicked schemes and highlights their impact on one’s reputation. How can we discern the consequences of wicked schemes and avoid gaining a reputation as a troublemaker? Discern the Consequences of Wicked Schemes: Recognize the warning about the reputation that follows those who plan evil. Choose not to engage in wicked schemes that lead to trouble. Cultivate a discerning mindset that considers the consequences of actions and avoids activities that tarnish your reputation. Reflect… Now, let’s turn our attention to verses 9-10. “The schemes of a fool are sinful; everyone detests a mocker. If you fail under pressure, your strength is too small.” These verses highlight the folly of sinful schemes, the detestable nature of mocking, and the importance of maintaining strength under pressure. How can we avoid the folly of sinful schemes, steer clear of mocking, and build strength to withstand pressure? We must Avoid the Folly of Sinful Schemes and Mocking by Recognizing the folly of engaging in sinful schemes and the detestable nature of mocking. Choose to avoid such behaviors, understanding their negative impact. Cultivate strength under pressure, acknowledging that endurance and resilience are crucial in navigating life’s challenges. Reflect… Verse 11-12 continues with reflections on the importance of delivering those who are unjustly sentenced. “Rescue those who are unjustly sentenced to die; save them as they stagger to their death. Don’t excuse yourself by saying, ‘Look, we didn’t know.’ For God understands all hearts, and he sees you. He who guards your soul knows you knew. He will repay all people as their actions deserve.” These verses emphasize the moral responsibility to intervene and save those facing unjust sentences, highlighting the accountability for knowing and not taking action. How can we fulfill the moral responsibility to rescue those facing unjust sentences and avoid excusing ourselves by claiming ignorance? We must understand and Fulfill our Moral Responsibility to Rescue the Unjustly Sentenced by Recognizing the moral responsibility to intervene and save those facing unjust sentences. Choose not to excuse yourself...

Welcome to Day 2304 of Wisdom-Trek. Thank you for joining me. This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom The Characters of Christmas-7  Seeking and Finding - The Wise Men – Daily Wisdom Putnam Church Message – 12/10/2023 The Characters of Christmas – Seeking and Finding: The Wise Men Last week, in our first message of Advent, we continued from last year and investigated some of the Characters of Christmas.  The First to Know: Shepherds. This week, we are going on a two-year expedition as we travel with a caravan of visitors from the east in a message titled,  Seeking and Finding: The Wise Men Let’s read Matthew 2:1-12, starting on page 1497, in your Pew Bibles. The Magi(Wise Men) Visit the Messiah 2 After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi[a] from the east came to Jerusalem 2 and asked, “Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.” 3 When King Herod heard this he was disturbed, and all Jerusalem with him. 4 When he had called together all the people’s chief priests and teachers of the law, he asked them where the Messiah was to be born. 5 “In Bethlehem in Judea,” they replied, “for this is what the prophet has written: 6 “‘But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for out of you will come a ruler who will shepherd my people Israel.’[b]” 7 Then Herod called the Magi secretly and found out from them the exact time the star had appeared. 8 He sent them to Bethlehem and said, “Go and search carefully for the child. As soon as you find him, report to me, so that I too may go and worship him.” 9 After they had heard the king, they went on their way, and the star they had seen when it rose went ahead of them until it stopped over the place where the child was. 10 When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. 11 On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. 12 And having been warned in a dream not to go back to Herod, they returned to their country by another route.   When you grow up in the church like I did, one of the enduring symbols of Christmas is the wise men and their camels. Every year, some larger churches put on multi-day Christmas pageants. These are elaborate affairs, complete with live animals, original music scores, and, yes, church members dressed up in satin gowns as wise men. (Hold up Blue Robe)   Picture in your mind a stately-looking man singing...