The Star of Bethlehem

Explore the science and the history behind the Biblical event that signaled the Messiah’s birth

It is easy to relegate it to an afterthought in a nativity scene or as just another tradition when it is placed atop the tree, but law professor Rick Larson wants everyone to take another look at the star that signaled the arrival of the Messiah.

Larson isn’t an astronomer, but he is passionate about the star and its part in God’s miraculous plan. After hanging a star as an outdoor decoration at Christmas, Larson began to question what the star as we know it really was. He researched and studied extensively until he found his answer. He shares both his historical and scientific findings – as well as his faith – in The Star of Bethlehem, a beautifully produced DVD of the presentation he has given to many live audiences. It is a story Larson feels he is divinely directed to share.

“I couldn’t have dreamed up something like this,” Larson said. “I did not need this project. My plate was full. All I really felt I did was to keep saying yes. It happened a little piece at a time. It feels like a calling. I put thousands of hours in the research but it didn’t feel like work.”

Larson’s presentation outlines real astronomical events that occurred around the time of the birth of Jesus, correlates those events to the Bible and presents what he terms the poetry planned by God and evidenced in the sky. Larson is as emotional when discussing the project as he is during the presentation included on the DVD. For him, this is more than a Christmas tradition – it is the revelation of God’s omnipotence for all to see.

“It is inherently interesting and also has enormous impact,” he said. “It isn’t just information. It is a worshipful experience.”

For homeschoolers, it also makes for a wonderful unit study. Larson includes research and supplemental information about ancient documents on his web site.

“You get to do history, math and astronomy,” he said. Students can “have a blast learning about astronomy and first Century history. You get to do math with Kepler and Newton.”

And, most importantly for Larson, the story of the birth of Messiah is told – even to those who have no interest in opening a Bible.

“I have been praying that God would take it to the world,” he said. “He put it in the sky for everyone.”

Though his life has been taken on a different course, Larson is thrilled to tell the story of the star of Bethlehem.

“What could be better?” he asked. “What more could I possibly ask than to bring people into the awe of God?”

“The Star of Bethlehem” is $12.95 on DVD and is available at Christian retailers and online. Total running time is 65 minutes. For more information, including movie trailers, an overview and more, visit www.thestarofbethlehemmovie.com.

Chris Worthy is mom to Caroline (16) and Nolan (11) and has been married for 20 years to her favorite person, John. Chris practiced law before becoming a writer and stay-at-home mother more than 10 years ago. She enjoys cooking, crafting, spoiling dogs, green living and rummaging though old books. Follow along at www.chrisworthy.com

Tags: Christmas, Messiah, movie review, Rick Larson, Star of Bethlehem Movie, Unit Studies, unity study

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