This will be the third year for First Baptist Church’s drive-thru nativity: “A Christmas Journey.”. The idea of a drive-thru nativity began in 2020 during the pandemic. In previous years the church had always presented a Christmas play and went caroling in the community.
Even though they were having in-person services, many were still uncomfortable being in crowds. A drive-thru nativity would allow the church to share the true meaning of Christmas and people could enjoy it without leaving their car. Even though the effects of the pandemic prevented the church from having the drive-thru nativity that year the event did come to fruition in 2021.
The inaugural presentation of “A Christmas Journey” told the story of Jesus’ birth beginning with the Angel Gabriel visiting Mary and telling her to not be afraid, for she had found favor with God.
Then you saw Joseph and Mary traveling to Bethlehem where there was no room for them in The Inn. Next was the manger scene with Joseph, Mary and the Baby Jesus surrounded by the animals. Angels announcing to the shepherds that a Savior had been born was the next scene followed by the wise men bringing gifts to the Christ child.
The weather that first year was cold and rainy. We wondered if that would keep people at home. The turnout was small, but we knew God was in it and this could become an annual event.
Last year, scenes were added to show more about Jesus’ life. The first addition came from his ministry with jesus healing the blind man. Then three crosses with the blood-stained cloth hanging from the center cross shows Jesus’ ultimate sacrifice by taking the punishment for our sins. The final scene depicted Jesus the Risen Savior standing outside the empty tomb.
It rained again that weekend but did not keep visitors away. More people came to experience “A Christmas Journey” than the year before.
This year a scene will be added to show another miracle of Jesus. We invite you to come to First Baptist Church of Maynardville on Saturday, December 9, from 6 to 8 p.m., to find out which miracle will be featured.