The poet Henry van Dyke, in 1896, wrote a story about “The Other Wise Man”—Artaban, who saw the star in the sky and left late to see the baby King. He sold everything to buy three jewels as his gift, then set out on his journey. But soon he found an old man dying in the road. Now what? Should he delay his life’s dream of following the star to minister to this dying stranger? He used one of the jewels to feed and bandage the man and received a blessing in return.
He rushed to Bethlehem. A young mother with a baby told him that three Wise Men had already been there with gifts for a new baby somewhere in the hills. Suddenly screams were heard outside, “Herod’s soldiers! They are killing our babies!” Artaban quickly gave his second jewel as a bribe for the soldiers. Artaban then
continued seeking the new King for 33 years… helping the sick, living among the poor, always praying he would someday find his King. At the end of his life, old and tired, he came to Jerusalem one last time.
It was Passover, and crowds were streaming toward Golgotha where they said a man called Jesus of Nazareth was being crucified. “I may yet find my King and offer my pearl for his ransom before he dies.” But suddenly
soldiers dragged a young girl by. She broke away and threw herself at Artaban’s feet. "Save me! I am to be sold as a slave for my father’s debts!"
Artaban took the pearl and laid it in her hand—his last treasure. Just then, a heavy tile blew from a roof and struck him. As the girl bent over him, he was speaking to someone she did not see: "No, my Lord--When did I see you hungry, and fed you? Or a stranger, and took you in?” A look of wonderful joy was on Artaban’s face as he heard his King say, “As much as you have done all this to the least of my children, you have done it to me.” Artaban breathed one last quiet breath. A calm radiance lit his face. His gifts had been accepted. The Other Wise Man had found the King.
Thanks to everyone who dropped of goodies and well wishes during the
Christmas holidays. We greatly appreciate your kindness and generosity.
Bishop Zubik has appointed Father Michael Ackerman to Resurrection Parish, effective Monday, January 17, 2022. Additionally, Father Ackerman will serve as a part-time chaplain to Seton-La Salle High School. Father will be of great assistance to the parish as I begin my new role as Auxiliary Bishop. Please welcome Father and point him in the right direction should he look lost!