Every year on Christmas morning, Husband and I read the Christmas story. We've heard it so many times so it's more like reciting than reading. This year, however, the story took on a whole new meaning...or maybe I just saw it with new eyes. After all, being 8 months pregnant can change one's perspective.
Let's set the scene...Mary and Joseph had to travel 80 miles...while being super pregnant and without having a Wendy's nearby. I don't know if Mary walked the whole way or whether she rode a camel but honestly neither option is very appealing. When I walk out to the mailbox, it takes about four times longer than it used to and I have to sit down and take a break when I get back inside. And riding for that long? I haven't been on a camel or a donkey for awhile but it seems like it might not be the most comfortable situation. Also, Mary has no idea what labor is like and there isn't a doc around to help her out. She's got Joseph, who was handy with a hammer but who knows if he paid attention in Lamaze class.
There they are in a strange place, without gloves or doctors or pain medicine. And Mary gave birth in a barn...with smelly animals and hay. I grew up on a farm and I know what a barn looks like. It's not exactly a place parents bring their kids to hang out. Jesus was her first kid so it seems like she might have been a bit terrified. The whole situation, for a new mom, must have been so weird and scary and she must have wondered why God would let His Son be born in such an unusual way. But God always has a plan and that's my favorite part of Christmas. I normally don't understand the plan but it sure helps to know that someone has one and that someone knows everything ever...which is pretty cool.
Merry Christmas friends! I hope it was fantastic and full of delicious food, happy times and Jesus.
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