Proof The Bible Is True

On January 6, 2020, as always, I carefully lifted the Nativity angel from the nail at the peak of the wooden stable and held her in my hands. Just as my parents and grandparents had done before me, I waited for this day to take down the crèche. Today was the feast of the Three Kings, or Epiphany, which commemorates the Magi’s visit to the newborn Jesus. They came bearing gifts, and while I wrapped and boxed each Nativity piece for the next year, I thought about the many gifts given throughout the Christmas story. The angel was first. As I took special care to protect her wings for storage, I recalled the angel’s annunciation to the shepherds and the heavenly host who joined in to proclaim “peace on earth.” On an unforgettable Three Kings Day, nearly 40 years ago, I had learned that the angels’ promise held a very personal gift for me.

 

Those many years ago, the ringing phone jolted me from a sound sleep. Who could be calling in the middle of the night? I shook my husband, Jerry, beside me. “Honey, the phone.” He rolled over and reached for the receiver on his bedside table.

 

“Hello?” he mumbled.

 

I looked at the clock on my side: 3:56 A.M., Thursday, January 6. The feast of the Three Kings, I thought automatically. We would take down the Christmas tree in the living room, put away the crèche for next year. A busy day ahead.

 

I turned back to Jerry, sitting upright, his free hand switching on the light. “When?” he said into the phone.

 

His tone frightened me. “What’s wrong?” The children were my first thought. Our daughters, Cheryl, 19, and Janette, 13, were here at home, asleep. Jerry Jr., 21, was a senior at Michigan State University. Jeffrey, 20, was a junior at the University of Michigan. Both had gone back to school two days before. “Is it one of the boys?”

 

Read More: This Christmas Angel Became a Source of Peace and Comfort | Guideposts