I had the chance to watch this documentary a few days ago, and I was quite surprised by the research of Rick Larson in his quest to find the truth behind the myth of the star. Larson uses both a scientific and Biblical approach to separate the myth from the facts. Then, by piecing the facts together and using a program that can accurately show the placement and movement of stars, he stumbles upon an incredible discovery.

Now, I’m not going to analyze this movie like Ebert and Roeper, but just add a personal aside to this documentary. In this day and age it can be extremely difficult to find the work and beauty of God. We spend so much time looking at the ground level that we forget the vast expanse that lies above us. An ever expanding universe cries out that God is real, alive, and shining down upon us all. This movie in particular displays God’s mighty power by showing how He alone is in charge of the heavenly hosts. There is no detail about the universe that was placed by mistake or happenstance. It seems that it takes greater faith to think that the entire universe, as well as the intricate creations around us, could be formed outside the hands of a Creator. Yet, I see this movie championing God’s mighty power to hold all things together and to even hold control over the stars and other celestial beings. What great power is in the hands of our mighty God. All I can do is shudder in fear at His amazing power, and stand in awe at His desire to make Himself known and available to us.

So, I offer a challenge to you during this Christmas season. Give this movie a fair viewing if you have not seen it. I challenge you to ask God to show you this Christmas season in a new light. Look up to the stars on a clear night and ponder the vast expanse above, and then think about the grand design that God has poured out before us all. We have reason to celebrate this season for there is no one like God, and we have a reminder through the birth of His son.