Christmas Eve - Mary Letter Day Twenty One

1 God is our refuge and strength,

a very present help in trouble. 

2 Therefore we will not fear, 

though the earth be moved,

and though the mountains be toppled

into the depths of the sea; 

3 Though its waters rage and foam,

and though the mountains

tremble at its tumult. 

4 The Lord of hosts is with us; 

the God of Jacob is our stronghold.

5 There is a river whose streams

make glad the city of God, 

the holy habitation of the Most High.

6 God is in the midst of her; 

she shall not be overthrown; 

God shall help her at the break of day. 

7 The nations make much ado, 

and the kingdoms are shaken;

God has spoken, and the earth shall melt away. 

8 The Lord of hosts is with us; 

the God of Jacob is our stronghold. 

9 Come now and look upon the works of the Lord,

what awesome things he has done on earth. 

10 It is he who makes war to cease in all the world; 

he breaks the bow, and shatters the spear,

and burns the shields with fire. 

11 "Be still, then, and know that I am God; 

I will be exalted among the nations;

I will be exalted in the earth." 

12 The Lord of hosts is with us;

the God of Jacob is our stronghold. Psalm 46

Dear Auntie,

Oh, I am so terrified! The pains are upon me, not too close apart yet. I woke up this morning and my legs and the bed were wet! I was so embarrassed! Joseph helped me get cleaned up and then he ran to get Rachel, at the inn. She came and shooed him away, sending him to get the wise woman she knows who'll help me with the birth. I wanted to be home!!

Please pray for me today, Auntie. It all seemed so easy at first when I said yes. I guess being naive is a good thing but now the pain and being so far away from home have me frightened. The world is not a kind place, and this city is teeming with people and everyone seems so angry. The wise woman is coming, so I'll have to keep this short. I will write to Mama and Papa when the baby has arrived safely, and we both are well and strong. I'm so scared but try to remember the angel's words and all your encouragement.  I know the Lord is with us and that we will make it to the other side. It doesn't feel that way right now, but I will trust and pray.

love,

Mary