The Wondrous and Life-Changing Gift of the King of Kings

In the film Why the Nativity?, there was a particular kingly entourage whose members first arrived to film in Rough Acres on May 5, 2022. They embarked on their journey as fellow actors and strangers. However, by the time they wrapped, they left resembling a close family unit collectively embodying the royal sophistication of their tribe.

“I feel like from day one, arriving on set and being received the way that I was, was a very surprising welcome,” says Paul Davis from Los Angeles. “I didn't expect it to be as grand as it was…but it was much bigger, grander, and nicer than I ever imagined. And it just continued throughout every shot—meticulously planned and executed.”

Davis starred as King Kamari, the king representing the head of the African entourage. Translating an imperial character on camera appeared to be second nature to him. However, what the producers were unaware of was how Why the Nativity? would only move Davis and his career forward, from years of editing post-production work to finally fulfilling his lifelong dream of acting.

There is a uniqueness in the way God chooses to remind His children that He knows exactly where they are in life.

There is a uniqueness in the way God chooses to remind His children that He knows exactly where they are in life. For Davis, there was a scene where an internal shift occurred, and it was as if God Himself drew near to him, the type of encounter where the hand of God reaches the deepest parts of man's being— the Creator embraces the creation.

“One of my best memories is a shot with me and the youngest prince. He and I were standing on this field, and it was supposed to be the first time we saw the star in the sky. And at that moment, I just felt embraced...I felt God,” says Davis.

...it was supposed to be the first time we saw the star in the sky. And at that moment, I just felt embraced...I felt God,” says Davis.

Both actors stood on a marshy plain that represented the majestic appearance of the Serengeti. In a moment, Davis experienced an internal pivot from hiding behind the scenes to fulfilling the dream of his heart.

“I felt like my father was proud of me. That was memorable for me because I was feeling a pivot. And at that moment, I felt a complete ‘Yes’ from all places. From God, from the Holy Spirit, my dad, my grandma, and my mom. I felt so embraced [knowing] that I am going the right way.”