Christmas 1 - Mary letter 30

When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, "Let us go now to Bethlehem and see this thing that has taken place, which the Lord has made known to us." So they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the child lying in the manger. When they saw this, they made known what had been told them about this child; and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds told them. But Mary treasured all these words and pondered them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them. After eight days had passed, it was time to circumcise the child; and he was called Jesus, the name given by the angel before he was conceived in the womb. Luke 2:15-21

Dear Mama and Papa,

yesterday was the day we took the baby to the temple for his dedication. The wise women were bustling around me to make sure I was strong enough to go to the temple, and they took special care to dress the boy and to say their prayers and blessings before we left. We had to hurry since they almost made us late. The rabbi was very patient with us and explained everything. Once he did I felt a little queasy! Joseph was strong for both of us and I looked away so I wouldn't faint. The men made a pretty tight circle, the women moving back and out of the ceremony, and I was glad of it! Jesus was so good and only whimpered. I really ached to grab him and run even though I knew we were doing the right thing. Mother's instincts are very strong and I am feeling so protective.

Afterwards, when we were heading home, two elders named Simeon and Anna, stopped us at the steps of the Temple. They told us they had been waiting for us, for this child. Their prayers were answered in seeing him and holding him. They were so gentle and kind, I couldn't refuse when they asked to hold him. They said prayers over him that were so sweet and kind. We were both moved to tears! God always seems to provide unexpected and remarkable encounters to remind us we are never alone!

I asked Simeon to write his prayer down for us. I wanted to share it with you!

Lord, you now have set your servant free 
    to go in peace as you have promised;
For these eyes of mine have seen the Savior,
    whom you have prepared for all the world to see:
A Light to enlighten the nations,
    and the glory of your people Israel.

love to you both from the three of us,

Mary