Return to Articles Index Join the Christmas Caravan By Robert J. Michels The giving and receiving of gifts has in all ages been a more formal and significant event in the East than among our culture. One of the things that has always intrigued me about the Christmas story is that the Magi from the East traveled for the birth of Jesus asking, "Where is he that is born King of the Jews" (Matthew 2:2)? Not only did they travel great distances in their quest but they also brought gifts.  Picture a caravan of men and camels and whatever other necessary supplies are needed for the long journey. They came to pay Him their respect and presented their costly gifts, the firstfruits of the wealth and wisdom of their world.  The giving and receiving of gifts has in all ages been a more formal and significant event in the East than among our culture. It is hard to think of a more remarkable proof of the important part which gifts play in the social life of the East than the fact that the Hebrew language possesses no less than fifteen different expressions for the one idea.  The nature of the gifts was as varied as were the occasions. The mode of presentation was with as much parade as possible. So, in the spirit of this gift giving of the Magi, a caravan of a different function has taken shape. It is called the Christmas Caravan.  Now, picture a retired minister of the gospel and spouse sitting beside a cozy fire, alone, in the middle of December. All of a sudden they hear a commotion outside. As they peer through the front window they see a parade of people, cars, and vans approaching.   To their amazement this Christmas Caravan is bringing boxes full of gifts – much-needed supplies. They have come in this present day to offer thanks for many years of service. If your family, church, or ministry would like to be a part of the Christmas Caravan reaching our retired Assemblies of God ministers who receive Aged Ministers Assistance, please give us a call at 1-417-862-2781 ext. 2182. Then we, in turn, will give you the name of one of God’s servants in need this Christmas. We also will send you a list of suggested items that these dear folks need or desire, although you are free to personally call and ask them for items that would be of an individual nature.  This ministry was well received last year and I know many of you will want to be a part of a caravan of blessing again this year. If you truly want to experience all the joy and blessing of Christmas, form a Christmas Caravan and reach out to those elderly ministers who for so long watched and prayed on our behalf.  Robert J. Michels is Director of the national Benevolences Department