Third Sunday of Advent
1 When the Lord restored
the fortunes of Zion, *
then were we like
those who dream.
2 Then was our mouth
filled with laughter, *
and our tongue
with shouts of joy.
3 Then they said
among the nations, *
"The Lord has done
great things for them."
4 The Lord has done
great things for us, *
and we are glad indeed.
5 Restore our fortunes, O Lord, *
like the watercourses of the Negev.
6 Those who sowed with tears *
will reap with songs of joy.
7 Those who go out weeping,
carrying the seed, *
will come again with joy,
shouldering their sheaves. Psalm 126
Dear Mama and Papa,
We made it here with little or no problem. Joseph's Aunt Ruth welcomed us in before daylight, saying she was an early riser. I really think she had been up all night, waiting for us and hoping we would make it safely. Joseph said he has walked this route many times and had little trouble in the dark. Aunt Ruth had food ready for us and it seemed like she might have been baking when we arrived. Her little home is cozy and warm, so after eating we fell asleep almost immediately. This first part of the journey, I rode on the donkey for awhile, but found the bumpy road uncomfortable, so walked beside Joseph. We stopped several times so I could rest and have a bit of water to drink. He was very thoughtful and protective of me.
Being on the road to Bethlehem has been interesting, even at night. We have seen many travelers, often rushing past us heading to the cities. We have also seen Roman soldiers, sitting by their campfires keeping warm. They all seems so young. It is strange to be walking through our homelands while foreigners patrol our highways. Fortunately, when one patrolling soldier stopped us and saw that I was pregnant, he let us continue with few questions. That soldier was younger than I am and looked more scared than I am! Truthfully, now that we have begun our journey, I feel less afraid than when I left.
We are getting ready to head out soon. We made sure to say our prayers as the sun was setting. Please pray that all of our travels are as easy as last night's. We are well rested, and I will be very careful along the way. I promise!
Much love,
Mary
A Litany for the Third Sunday of Advent
Wondrous Creator, you hung the moon and stars
so we might travel by their ever-present light
you give us strength for the roads ahead of us
and find us shelter and community on the journey.
Help us, Lord, to walk in the light of your love.
We often wander off the trails and paths you set
finding ourselves in danger and in the dark
yet even then you seek out all of the lost ones
helping and guiding us back to your pathway.
Help us, Lord, to walk in the light of your love.
You find us in our troubles and in our challenges
making us a place at your bounteous table
you give us enough for every journey ahead
and silently walk with us even when we stumble.
Help us, Lord, to walk in the light of your love.
There is no darkness, fear or terror in you
only healing, restoration and abiding love.
Help us, Lord, to walk in the light of your love.
Despite all the things that distract and worry
you are always our comfort, our guide, and our friend.
Help us, Lord, to walk in the light of your love.
For you came to the lowliest and the humble
blessing us all and calling us your beloved children.
Help us, Lord, to walk in the light of your love. Amen.
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