SCRIPTURE: “These things I have spoken to you that in me you might have peace. In the world you shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.” - JOHN 16:33

When I think about the journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem, I immediately envision a Renaissance painting of protective Joseph, leading the gentle donkey carrying the serene Mary on their journey to the stable where the Savior would be born. That, in turn reminded me of the recent pregnancy of my daughter-in-law. It was a challenging pregnancy and toward the end, she was uncomfortable most of the time. My own pregnancies brought their own share of discomfort and anxiety. Actually, any woman who has ever been pregnant will tell you how uncomfortable pregnancy can be. Any person who has ever been within earshot of a pregnant woman is well aware of the issues involved.

I traveled during two of my pregnancies. The comforts of modern transportation went unnoticed during my journeys. There was no comfortable position. The trips were sheer misery, start to finish. Consequently, I cannot imagine any circumstances under which I would have consented to traveling anywhere on a donkey during the last stages of my pregnancies. In Luke 1:30-31, the Angel Gabriel came to Mary and said, "You have found favor with God and you will bear a son."  You will notice that nowhere does he mention, "and when you are heavy with child you will ride 80 MILES ON A DONKEY."

The journey to Bethlehem is not even mentioned in the Bible. It just states that they went.  Obviously, the Renaissance painter did not have a clue about pregnancy or donkeys or women....because I can assure you that no part of that journey involved the words "gentle" or "serene." There was a donkey at the end of the rope, but by the end of that journey, I bet Joseph was at the end of his as well.

The point I am attempting to make is this. Journeys, like pregnancies, like life, involve the little "hiccups", the unexpected, the challenges, and the unbearable. The good news is that none of them last forever and interspersed with the valleys are the mountain tops...the quiet smiles, the joyous laughter, and the moments of total elation.

In pregnancy, the almost unbearable is followed by the total elation of the new life.  Mary's miserable donkey ride does not even rate a mention when compared with the miracle of our Savior coming to earth to dwell among us.

As we journey through Advent, and Christmas and the coming year, we must remember that God is journeying with us.  He will support us through the lows and rejoice with us during the highs.  When we reach the end of the journey, the elation will erase all memory of the challenges.

PRAYER: Father, remind us that when we are amid the storms and troubles of this life, we may rest in you.  Under your care, governed by your will, guarded by your love, let us rejoice, knowing that in the darkness and the light you are with us.  AMEN (Adapted from a Prayer by George Dawson)

~ Tara Thornock