you have restored the good fortune of Jacob.
2 You have forgiven the iniquity of your people *
and blotted out all their sins.
3 You have withdrawn all your fury *
and turned yourself from your wrathful indignation.
4 Restore us then, O God our Savior; *
let your anger depart from us.
5 Will you be displeased with us for ever? *
will you prolong your anger from age to age?
6 Will you not give us life again, *
that your people may rejoice in you?
7 Show us your mercy, O Lord, *
and grant us your salvation.
8 I will listen to what the Lord God is saying, *
for he is speaking peace to his faithful people
and to those who turn their hearts to him.
9 Truly, his salvation is very near
to those who fear him, *
that his glory may dwell in our land.
10 Mercy and truth have met together; *
righteousness and peace have kissed each other.
11 Truth shall spring up from the earth, *
and righteousness shall look down from heaven.
12 The Lord will indeed grant prosperity, *
and our land will yield its increase.
13 Righteousness shall go before him, *
and peace shall be a pathway for his feet. Psalm 85
Dear Mama,
We went to the temple for his dedication. We had to go in an off time, so we would not be seen my any Roman authorities. A friend of our hosts arranged for the Rabbi to meet us in the evening, after the sun had set. It was a simple ceremony without any fuss. I missed you and Papa fiercely during it and could not help but weep. We were surprised by two elders, who at first seemed like homeless to us. They told us they spent their days and evenings in the temple, awaiting the Messiah. They each help our little boy, prayed over him, and gave us all a blessing. They were so happy and excited, we had to keep them from shouting. Their joy was so spontaneous and real. They told us that our little boy is the one they had waited for all these years. They explained that he was the bearer of mercy and truth and the vessel of God's love incarnate. And that he was God's gift to the whole world. We were hardly able to say anything, we were so overwhelmed by their witness.
Our hosts surprised us with a special meal when we returned. I guess they knew how much we missed family and how careful we have to be. There was cake and dates, and fruit of all sorts. They also brought wine and musicians. We sang late into the night, careful to keep the noise down. Their kindness and generosity can never be repaid I hope some day we can return here and honor them with gifts. God has blessed us with so much, even amidst all the challenges, Mama. Our little one rewarded them with hugs and kisses and kept time with the music and was full of smiles. He truly is a gift, so little and tender. I hope I can do right by him and protect him from the world's greed and dangers.
Hopefully, we can start home tomorrow or the next day. Prayers are needed, Mama.
Love always,
Mary
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