Mary Letter - Day 30

1 Sing unto the LORD a new song, * 

for the LORD has done marvelous things. 

2 The right hand and the holy arm of the LORD * 

have secured the victory. 

3 The LORD has made known this victory; * 

and has openly shown righteousness 

in the sight of the nations. 

4 The LORD remembers mercy and 

faithfulness to the house of Israel, * 

and all the ends of the earth 

have seen the victory of our God. 

5 Shout with joy to the LORD, all you lands; * l

ift up your voice, rejoice, and sing. 

6 Sing to the LORD with the harp, * 

with the harp and the voice of song. 

7 With trumpets and the sound of the horn * 

shout with joy before the Sovereign, the LORD. 

8 Let the sea make a noise and all that is in it, * 

the lands and those who dwell therein. 

9 Let the rivers clap their hands, * 

and let the hills ring out with joy 

before the LORD, who is coming to judge the earth. 

10 In righteousness shall the LORD judge the world * 

and the peoples with equity. Psalm 98

Dear Elizabeth,

I have heard from Mama and Papa and they seem thrilled to hear that the child is born and we are safe and well. I think they were sad we didn't make it home, but they didn't let on to that. They have been through so much and have been supportive, despite the reaction from our village. Things seem to have settled down since we left and people are leaving them alone for the most part. I am glad for that. And I surely don't want them to know all the worries and challenges we have here. Our hosts have been very kind, and local people and total strangers stop by to see the child. It also means we are very vulnerable at times. We have to be very careful.

Rumors have gone around that the roman governor is looking for this child as is the king. Why, I cannot imagine. There have been more troops walking in groups through our part of Bethlehem. We have moved from the stable that faces the street to another shed like building behind it. We are tucked away from the eyes of the law, for now. Joseph has been to the registry office several times, waiting in line for hours, only to be turned away because their work day is over. Hopefully this will be done soon and we can make our way back home. It hasn't been hard to keep little Jesus quiet as he is a gentle baby, and loves to coo and sing his baby songs. He can really get loud when he's hungry so I try to make sure he is well fed! 

Elizabeth, pray for us. We do not know why the authorities seek the child, nor do we know if the rumors are even true. All we know is that we continue to have to be very careful and vigilant, praying to God for our safety and care.

Much love,

Mary