Shortly after midnight, baby Jesus was born and laid down in a manger. A new and bright star, the Star of Bethlehem, appeared and caught the attention of magi from the East (commonly referred to as the Three Kings) who lived far away from Jesus. The three kings would follow this strange star until they found the young Jesus.
Nine hours after, and 7000 miles away, from where this strange star first appeared in Bethlehem, an Anasazi father would marvel at the strange light in the sky as he made his way back home. Home would bring him three of his children, huddled together under their buckskin blankets as they listened to their grandpa tell stories by the fire. The father would peak into the cave where his newborn son lay next to his wife. He would then tell his oldest son that he had spotted a herd of deer and that they would set out early tomorrow morning to hunt. Grandma would hand father a wooden bowl full of stewed rabbit, corn, and squash. Father’s two daughters would have their burden baskets nearby, ready for tomorrow’s gathering of whatever wild seeds they could find. Grandma also had given them the task of gathering more yucca leaves; she’ll weave more baskets and make a new pair of sandals for grandpa with the long and tough leaves. Father’s youngest daughter would ask him what the strange star in the sky was. Father would glance at the new light and shake his head. He would tell her it is just a sign from the gods that their new baby brother would be strong and healthy and that the deer and sheep would be plentiful. A short time later, everyone would huddle in the cave with mother and baby; the night was cold. Father would take one last look at the strange star and give silent thanks to the gods. His family would sleep through a safe and peaceful night.