When they saw the star they were filled with joy. They entered the house and saw the child with Mary his mother. Falling to their knees, they honored him. Then they opened their treasure chests and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. – Matthew 2:10-11

I am not exactly a cinematographer, but sometimes a short video is the only way to offer a complete look when there is so much detail to share.

Also, somewhere around 90% of my readers live somewhere other than Tarboro, so this is the only way I can offer a more complete view of the new Maul-Hall and how the space responds to being dressed up for Christmas.

Until we pulled all the boxes out of storage we didn’t remember exactly what we had kept and what we had given away – and what we have lost too. But what remains is a good representation of our history together.

If there is one theme that pulls it all together this year it is light. But what really makes this work is Rebekah, and the seriously cool way this old house interfaces with her classic sense of style.

The video includes a little commentary, but for a detailed explanation and a relaxed look at the rest of the house you will just have to come to see us.

We may not have a bright new star hovering over our house to mark the place. But I can say that, were the Magi to happen by, I’d like to think that, as in Matthew’s account, they would also enter this house with joy. Why? Because they would soon discover that Jesus is resident in this place too. And that gives Rebekah and me joy!

May the anticipation and the joy that fueled the journey of the Magi be yours, every day – DEREK