But there will be no gloom for those who were in anguish. In the former time he brought into contempt the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, but in the latter time he will make glorious the way of the sea, the land beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the nations. The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness— on them light has shined. You have multiplied the nation, you have increased its joy; they rejoice before you as with joy at the harvest, as people exult when dividing plunder. For the yoke of their burden, and the bar across their shoulders, the rod of their oppressor, you have broken as on the day of Midian. For all the boots of the tramping warriors and all the garments rolled in blood shall be burned as fuel for the fire. For a child has been born for us, a son given to us; authority rests upon his shoulders; and he is named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. His authority shall grow continually, and there shall be endless peace for the throne of David and his kingdom. He will establish and uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time onward and forevermore. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will do this. Isaiah 9:1-7
Dear Auntie Elizabeth,
Well, today I am a married woman! Your Rabbi Jacob arrived the other evening and we had a nice time to visit while the guests gathered. It was only very close family and friends. The ceremony happened in the garden at dusk and the stars shone bright as we finally got to our vows. I was so nervous. Mama had made me a beautiful gown, adorned with ribbons and very flowing. She piled my hair on top of my head and wrapped my hair in ribbons as well. Jospeh looked so handsome and at least as nervous as I was. We came inside afterwards and feasted. Papa thought it best not to draw attention by being loud outside. It was a great moment which I will never forget. Rabbi Jacob read words from the prophet Isaiah, and we felt as if we were doing a very holy thing.
Joseph is now living here with us, sleeping in my room. We decided some time back to hold off on intimacy until after this baby is born. Besides, I'm very nervous and awkward. Joseph is so gentle and careful of my comfort and my feelings. We laugh a lot, and he tells me silly stories from his childhood.
He loves watching my belly when the baby is kicking and puts his head next to me and listens close.
The plans for the trip to Bethlehem are underway. Papa feels the threats from our so-called neighbors are real, so we will do our initial traveling at night. He is trying to set up a network of family and friends who will keep us safe and Jospeh is working closely with him. Mama and I are drying fruits for the journey.
Much love,
Mary
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