The nativity scene is once again in place in my living room, resting on a white cloth on the dark cherry wood desk. My nativity set may be old and banged up a bit, but it still holds the most important place of honor in my living room and in the Christmas season.

My Christmas tree is also in place, with its blue lights and blue, gold and white ornaments. I love the softness and glow of my Christmas tree, but somehow I’m still drawn to the simple nativity scene.

On Sunday morning, I noticed once again how the Baby Jesus figure, nestled toward the back of my nativity set, still looks good. The Mary and Joseph figures, the sheep, the donkey and the shepherds are also still in good shape and positioned to face the baby. It’s the wisemen, who are approaching the manger scene from the sides, who look the worse for wear, perhaps the worse for their long journey.