Imagine

Over twenty-two centuries ago, there were no cars, no trucks, no trains, no airplanes.  There was no electricity.  There were no computers, or GPS, or weather forecasts, no TV or ear buds to listen to music.  There was no plastic.  No Legos or many other toys.  A very different life.  Yet that little country, a mere strip along the Mediterranean Sea, had been the scene of wars for many thousands of years.  Brothers fighting brothers, invaders from outside fighting everyone.  That much has not changed.

Over twenty-two centuries ago, a young man was walking with his very pregnant bride.  They had been walking for some days, on their way from their home in Nazareth to Bethlehem. The ruler in Rome, Caesar, wanted all the people in his conquered territory to be counted, and that meant they had to go to Bethlehem.  So they walked along a dusty road, and he led a donkey.

"Joseph," she said.
"Hmmm?" he answered, his thoughts far away.  He was tired, and he knew she must be.
"Can you help me up so I can ride on the donkey for awhile?"
And he helped her up, and reassured her, "It will be fine, Mary."  They smiled, tired smiles, and continued on. 

Yes, they were tired, and worried some about the near future.  When they got to Bethlehem, would they find someone to take them in?  So often over the last months, there had been snickers and snide remarks, and backs turned when they approached.  It had been hard to bear, yet bear it they must.  After all, Mary had had an angel come to her and tell her that she would have a miracle baby, a Holy Child, who was to be the Son of God.  (Luke 1:26-38)  Later, Joseph had an angel come to him and assure him that this Holy Baby would be called Jesus, which means 'the Lord saves.'  (Matthew 1:18-25)  So they married and worked and talked about this amazing thing that was happening to them.

Before they left Nazareth for Bethlehem, Joseph had asked his mother what to do for Mary when it came time for her Baby to be born.  He couldn't be sure of where they were to stay, or even if anyone would help her deliver her precious Baby.  So they walked, and worried, and prayed.  Surely all would be well?

"Joseph?" asked Mary, "How much further do you think?"
"Oh, if memory serves, not too far now.  Up the hill and a couple turns, and we should be there.  Soon."
Mary sighed and said, "Good."  She gently rubbed her pregnant belly and murmured, "Soon, Little One, soon."

. . .