Daily Worship

Mary’s Diary: On The Road

Lily Cathcart December 19, 2021 0 1
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Luke 2: 1-5 (NRSVA)

2 In those days a decree went out from Emperor Augustus that all the world should be registered. 2 This was the first registration and was taken while Quirinius was governor of Syria. 3 All went to their own towns to be registered. 4 Joseph also went from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to the city of David called Bethlehem, because he was descended from the house and family of David. 5 He went to be registered with Mary, to whom he was engaged and who was expecting a child.

After I’d seen an angel I thought everything would be different. I mean it is, but not how I imagined. I’m not raised up to a new life full of constant joy, it turns out that’s not how it works, not how God works.

Instead here I am being kicked in the bladder by a baby and trying desperately to look like I’ve ridden a donkey before while being bounced along the longest road in creation. I am grateful for the donkey, oh heavens I am, but can’t help feeling very uncomfortable.

Why am I riding a donkey when by rights I should be lying down being looked after by my family? At least those who will still speak to me after the whole ‘who’s the father’ thing. Because some high and thinks-he’s-mighty Roman says we have to go and write our names down where our ancestors were born. So here I am and I need to pee again and honestly don’t know which one of us smells worse, me, Joseph or the donkey.

Wait he’s kicking again. Stay in there little one. He really is a miracle and not just because of the angel, because he’s real and growing and strong. You’re going to need to be strong my boy. Don’t worry, I’ve got you.

 

PRAYER:

 

Dear God of journeys

You see every hard journey taken,

Whether by foot or by heart or by donkey.

Guide all who journey, guide them to safety

and guide them to your loving embrace.

Amen