December 18 – The Departure
The sun had not yet risen over the hills of Nazareth when Mary and Joseph set off with the caravan traveling south. The donkey plodded along, his feet laden with invisible bricks that seemed to protest the early morning hours. There was crispness to the air and they could see their own breaths mingling with that of the various pack animals. Joseph held tight to the rope around the donkey’s neck, feeling the full weight of his situation as guardian of his bride-to-be and the unborn child.
Their journey started with a descent from the hills of Nazareth to the even plain of the Jezreel Valley. This was the easiest part of the voyage. This valley was the location of many ancient battles and its rich dirt was steeped in conflict and bloodshed. Unbeknownst to all involved, this was a very ironic beginning for the journey that would culminate in the birth of the One who would be called The Prince of Peace.
Mary glanced at the stars overhead as they slowly disappeared in the early morning light. Her heart fluttered in her chest at the thought of leaving her home again so soon. So much traveling in the last 9 months! Mary remembered her trip into the hills of Judea to visit Elizabeth months before. There had been so much fear in that time. The angel had appeared to her and the news that both she and Elizabeth would bear children had sent her, breathless and frightened, on the excursion to see for herself. Now, on the way to Bethlehem with Joseph for the census, Mary feels only anticipation. God, it seems, liked to reveal himself in the guise of a good journey and Mary was ready and watchful for what He might reveal to her next.
No comments:
Post a Comment