He is Near - Mary Letter Day 15

‘From the fig tree learn its lesson: as soon as its branch becomes tender and puts forth its leaves, you know that summer is near. So also, when you see all these things, you know that he is near, at the very gates. Truly I tell you, this generation will not pass away until all these things have taken place. Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away. ‘But about that day and hour no one knows, neither the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. For as the days of Noah were, so will be the coming of the Son of Man. For as in those days before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day Noah entered the ark, and they knew nothing until the flood came and swept them all away, so too will be the coming of the Son of Man. Then two will be in the field; one will be taken and one will be left. Two women will be grinding meal together; one will be taken and one will be left. Keep awake therefore, for you do not know on what day your Lord is coming. But understand this: if the owner of the house had known in what part of the night the thief was coming, he would have stayed awake and would not have let his house be broken into. Therefore you also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an unexpected hour. Matthew 24:32-44

Dear Elizabeth,

This little one is really kicking and moving. I sometimes think I see a little tiny foot pushing against my belly and feel hiccups all the time. There is no question that life is present, and that my time is drawing near. I am so gigantic and have lost my balance completely. I have to hold on to chairs and walls when I walk along even inside. Mama and Papa laugh at me sometimes and I even get tickled with myself. I know this little child is already in charge, because I am not.

Our travel preparations are almost done, except for finding suitable lodging with family. Some have been very slow to respond and others, particularly Joseph's family have already departed for the city.

I have never been on such a journey, let alone heavy with child, Mama is very worried and sad, because she really wants to be with me all the way. Papa keeps telling her that I will be back before the child arrives. I think he is saying that for her comfort, and mine. I wish I could pack them up and take them with us. But we can't afford to do that, and they are reluctant to leave home. Joseph has been so good about organizing and keeping his composure. When I start fretting he just puts his arm around me, and sits me down. He doesn't have to say much to restore my calm. 

love,

Mary