Monday, December 21, 2020

Mary Letter - Day 23







1 When the Lord restored the fortunes of Zion, * 
then were we like those who dream. 
2 Then was our mouth filled with laughter, *
and our tongue with shouts of joy. 
3 Then they said among the nations, * 
"The Lord has done great things for them." 
4 The Lord has done great things for us, * 
and we are glad indeed. 
5 Restore our fortunes, O Lord, * 
like the watercourses of the Negev. 
6 Those who sowed with tears * 
will reap with songs of joy. 
7 Those who go out weeping, carrying the seed, * 
will come again with joy, shouldering their sheaves. Psalm 126




Dear Elizabeth,

A intense storm came through while we were traveling. There were so many people on the road! More people than I have ever seen before. The noise and the smells were overwhelming. Everyone was terrified and the donkey was so frightened. We ran from the main road and found a small barn which had been abandoned a long time ago. The roof seems good though and it is shelter for the time being. Joseph had us leave the highway for fear of being knocked down or even trampled. We are so not seasoned travelers and I am so easily rattled. The rotten straw and musty odors here are still better than the noise and stench on the road! The sun has set so we will rest here for the night and get started again in the morning.

This trip is so much longer than I imagined! Mama packed so much food for our journey and now I am grateful for every morsel. I thought she was being silly packing so much and weighing us down. Yet here we sit, feasting on cakes and dates in the candle light. The taste brings back a sense of home and for a time we can feel safe and warm. The wind has slowed but the rain is still coming down. Joseph's big cloak keeps us warm and dry for the most part. I will be so relieved when we get done with all of this! I trust that God will see us through, but some days, particularly these stormy ones, I ache to be home in my own bed. I wish God wouldn't provide so many obstacles on our journey!

Sending love to you and your little family,

Mary

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