Then King David went in and sat before the Lord, and said, “Who am I, O Lord God, and what is my house, that you have brought me thus far? And yet this was a small thing in your eyes, O Lord God; you have spoken also of your servant’s house for a great while to come. May this be instruction for the people, O Lord God! And what more can David say to you? For you know your servant, O Lord God! Because of your promise, and according to your own heart, you have wrought all this greatness, so that your servant may know it. Therefore you are great, O Lord God; for there is no one like you, and there is no God besides you, according to all that we have heard with our ears. Who is like your people, like Israel? Is there another nation on earth whose God went to redeem it as a people, and to make a name for himself, doing great and awesome things for them, by driving out before his people nations and their gods? And you established your people Israel for yourself to be your people forever; and you, O Lord, became their God. And now, O Lord God, as for the word that you have spoken concerning your servant and concerning his house, confirm it forever; do as you have promised. Thus your name will be magnified forever in the saying, ‘The Lord of hosts is God over Israel’; and the house of your servant David will be established before you. For you, O Lord of hosts, the God of Israel, have made this revelation to your servant, saying, ‘I will build you a house’; therefore your servant has found courage to pray this prayer to you. And now, O Lord God, you are God, and your words are true, and you have promised this good thing to your servant; now therefore may it please you to bless the house of your servant, so that it may continue forever before you; for you, O Lord God, have spoken, and with your blessing shall the house of your servant be blessed forever.” 2 Samuel 7:18-29
Dear Mama,
This morning we both came into Bethlehem from Ruth's house. We couldn't stay there any longer as more of her family was arriving. All of the inns here are full to capacity, but Joseph was diligent yesterday and one kind person said they might have a place. Well, they did have a space, but not what we expected! They made us a private space in their stable, bringing a matress and sheets out to a clean area in one corner. They saw how big I was and realized I am close to term. They have hung some curtains for privacy and put up fences to keep the larger animals out of our space. I never expected this would be my lot. Joseph was very upset at first, wanting to find something better. The kind folks who own this inn made such and effort to make us comfortable, we couldn't remain upset. Here we are in a situation that we have no control over. Judith and Samuel have made a place for us and I am so tired that it seems like a royal suite.
Judith has gone to fetch one of the local wise women, as she thinks I am ready to deliver. I told her I was going back home to have this baby but she insisted. She said it couldn't hurt to have me checked out. She is being very sweet bringing me water and fruit while Joseph is once again at the census office trying to get an appointment. She sat with me for a while this morning and told me about all of her children and grandchildren. Mama, you would like her,
The city is filthy, crowded and so noisy. It is not at all like what I expected. There was so much pushing and shoving as we made our way here, I was sure that I would fall down. Joseph kept me close and got us here in one piece. It's nothing like home, Mama. But this little corner will have to do until Joseph gets through with the officials. The stable is build into the hill so we are somewhat shielded from the noise and smell of the city. Missing you both so much!
love,
Mary
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