Flight in Winter - Advent Letters Day 10

Let the one who is on the housetop not go down to take what is in his house, and let the one who is in the field not turn back to take his cloak. And alas for women who are pregnant and for those who are nursing infants in those days! Pray that your flight may not be in winter or on a Sabbath. For then there will be great tribulation, such as has not been from the beginning of the world until now, no, and never will be. Matthew 24:17-23

Dear Elizabeth,

I fear we will never make it to Bethlehem. Although it is less than 100 miles between home and there, the going is rough and we are very slow. We have travel less than 8 miles so far, getting a late start after our first overnight with the cousins. I don't mean to complain but there home was very cramped and I slept very badly. To our surprise, when we woke in the morning, there was a blanket of snow. It never snows here, but it did! The elders were saying it only happens in very important years and they made extra prayers today. We took our time as the donkey wanted nothing to do with the snow. Most of it has melted away and the afternoon was warm enough for us to travel, but then it was so late, we made little progress.


we will stay with another relative, Simon and Ruth. You remember them, right? Mama says you all grew up together. and they are very warm people who have made us soft beds and delicious food. They knew our story when we arrived and took it in stride. Others have been less kind, but they seemed to think that saying yes to God is a noble thing. They have made us feel comfortable and told us not to be ashamed or fearful. They say that God will guide our every step. Well, God is guiding us very slowly! But I don't really mind. I am in no hurry to be in a crowded city. The slow progress gives us time alone to talk and to rest as we chose. Gives us time to be a couple together.

I am so tired all the time. I am ready to fall asleep but wanted you to know we are all right so far. I hope you will get my letters and smile. Please pray for us. All of the reassurances are lovely, but they can fade fast on these rocky and dusty roads.

all my love,

Mary