As part of an on-line Advent study group with Missional Commons, I have today been introduced to theologian Kenneth Bailey. As someone who is not a biblical or history scholar, I found his explanations in his "A Clear View of the Birth of Jesus" video (the first of four) to be very interesting. I'm looking forward to listening to the others. Thought some of you here might also be intrigued. The phrase about 'barnacles' is his, not mine - a metaphor for all the myths and interpretations we humans have attached to the story over time. Interested in your thoughts ...