God is our refuge and strength,
a very present help in trouble.
Therefore we will not fear,
though the earth be moved,
and though the mountains be toppled
into the depths of the sea;
Though its waters rage and foam,
and though the mountains
tremble at its tumult.
The Lord of hosts is with us;
the God of Jacob is our stronghold.
There is a river whose streams
make glad the city of God,
the holy habitation of the Most High.
God is in the midst of her;
she shall not be overthrown;
God shall help her at the break of day.
The nations make much ado,
and the kingdoms are shaken;
God has spoken, and the earth
shall melt away.
The Lord of hosts is with us;
the God of Jacob is our stronghold.
Come now and look upon
the works of the Lord,
what awesome things he
has done on earth.
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.
"Be still, then, and know that I am God;
I will be exalted among the nations;
I will be exalted in the earth."
The Lord of hosts is with us;
the God of Jacob is our stronghold. Psalm 46
Dear Auntie,
Some days are just hard. Joseph found me weeping on our bed of straw, after he returned for the day. I couldn't explain what's wrong. I guess I haven't slept well for a long time, and my body aches while it is healing. I'm not sure I can be a good mother for this wonderful child, this gift from the Lord. I am just a girl, trying to do the right thing, but everything seems so difficult. And I miss my mama so much, I choke up just thinking of home. I guess I just expected that this would be easier, since I said yes to God. I guess the lesson here is that this child is wonderful and we are ALL human. Even this child of God is human, with constant needs and care. Maybe you understand?
We are keeping close to our lodging, as they are, since we have heard threats of violence to young Jewish boys. I hear the soldiers' feet on the dusty road and panic, but so far no one has sought us out. We walk at night in the inn's vegetable garden which faces away from the road. Isaac brought out some a bench and table so we could sit out and look at the stars. Joseph has been very tender after my meltdown, bringing me my favorite food of dates and olives. He has turned out to be a great father and husband! He loves carrying the baby around and sings to him often. At night, he read to me and gets up with the baby when I am too tired. I am so fortunate, and yet I can't wait to be home and safe. I wish I was stronger and more faithful.
much love,
Mary
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