At that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” He called a child, whom he put among them, and said, “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever becomes humble like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. Whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me.
“If any of you put a stumbling block before one of these little ones who believe in me, it would be better for you if a great millstone were fastened around your neck and you were drowned in the depth of the sea. Woe to the world because of stumbling blocks! Occasions for stumbling are bound to come, but woe to the one by whom the stumbling block comes!
“If your hand or your foot causes you to stumble, cut it off and throw it away; it is better for you to enter life maimed or lame than to have two hands or two feet and to be thrown into the eternal fire. And if your eye causes you to stumble, tear it out and throw it away; it is better for you to enter life with one eye than to have two eyes and to be thrown into the hell of fire.
“Take care that you do not despise one of these little ones; for, I tell you, in heaven their angels continually see the face of my Father in heaven. What do you think? If a shepherd has a hundred sheep, and one of them has gone astray, does he not leave the ninety-nine on the mountains and go in search of the one that went astray? And if he finds it, truly I tell you, he rejoices over it more than over the ninety-nine that never went astray. So it is not the will of your Father in heaven that one of these little ones should be lost.” Matthew 18:1-14
Dear Elizabeth,
we are remaining in Bethlehem for the time being, although there are rumors abounding that our little one is in danger. Stories have reached the ruler that there is a new king born in the city and he is not happy. These occupiers are ruthless and don't care who they kill. They would destroy children just to keep their power. Fortunately, no one would think to look in this most humble stable for us. It breaks my heart to imagine anyone capable of hurting children. I can't imagine how horrible it must be for a mother to lose a child.
My little boy grows brighter and stronger every day. I am sure all mothers say that their child is the most beautiful and sweet, but, Auntie, this little guy is very special. Oh, he wakes me up at night and is insistent when he's hungry, but he makes my heart glad and my spirit marvel at the goodness of God. No matter how fearful and worried I might become, a moment with him, and I am made new. These little ones must be so very precious to our Creator. It's as if I can see the hand of God in the tender little hands and feet of my baby.
We have visitors on a regular basis and are never without fruits and meat. Folks want to shower us and take care of us. It is extraordinary! The kindness and generosity is truly astounding, and despite the challenges behind and ahead, we are reveling in these tender moments.
much love,
Mary
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