When John heard in prison what the Messiah was doing, he sent word by his disciples and said to him, “Are you the one who is to come, or are we to wait for another?” Jesus answered them, “Go and tell John what you hear and see: the blind receive their sight, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the poor have good news brought to them. And blessed is anyone who takes no offense at me.”
As they went away, Jesus began to speak to the crowds about John: “What did you go out into the wilderness to look at? A reed shaken by the wind? What then did you go out to see? Someone dressed in soft robes? Look, those who wear soft robes are in royal palaces. What then did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet. This is the one about whom it is written, ‘See, I am sending my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way before you.’ Truly I tell you, among those born of women no one has arisen greater than John the Baptist; yet the least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he. From the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven has suffered violence, and the violent take it by force. For all the prophets and the law prophesied until John came; and if you are willing to accept it, he is Elijah who is to come. Let anyone with ears listen!” Matthew 11:2-15
Dear Aunt Elizabeth,
I was going to write today to Mama and Papa, but we have been warned not to contact them at present, as there are some people from our village who mean to do us harm and are willing to follow us to do so. Can you imagine? I didn't realize how anxious and worried my folks were and are, and how much they protected me while I was at home. It gives me a new appreciation of what parents do for their young, and how complicated life can get.
We are staying with a cousin of Joseph, up in the hills, and we woke up to a dusting of snow! I felt like a little girl since we never have snow at home! I went out and took a handful, cold and wet, and threw it in the air. God's creation is at once familiar and remarkable, astounding and comforting. Cousin Naomi is a widow living in these high hills in her own home. Her grown children live nearby but she seems to enjoy rambling around in this house by herself. She is quite a hostess and had fed us constantly since we arrived. She wants me to be checked by her friend who is a wise woman, to make sure the baby has not been aversely affected by the travel so far. Such kindness, I never expected. She also has wonderful stories and loves to sit and tell them all day long while I rest.
Well, I hope you will communicate with Mama and Papa on our behalf. I don't want them to suffer unduly and want to reassure them we are doing fine. Please pray for us and for them in these strange times.
Much love,
Mary
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