It is Monday, and back we go to the story of Mary and Joseph, first written in the Bible, then magnified skillfully by Marjorie Holmes in her book, TWO FROM GALILEE written some time ago. Our story is only bits and pieces of her book, the story shortened to be only a hint of the beginning life of our Lord Jesus Christ through the lives of his human parents, Mary and Joseph and their love story.
We come again, to Joseph's home where he had been just visited by an angel who told him that his job and future was to take as his wife, Mary, his own precious love, but he was not to "know" her until after the Babe was born. From this point on, Joseph was determined to rush to Jerusalem to bring her home, but he discovers his father, Jacob, has died and Joseph is needed desperately in Nazareth.
As his father lay on his death bed, Joseph begged his father's forgiveness for the selfish and unloving attitude he had nurtured for himself. As he knelt before Jacob's body he cried out, "Father!,Father!"...
Joseph knelt before Jacob whose eyes glittered from the early light from the coins placed upon their lids. Joseph hoped his father's soul had not yet departed as he cried, "Father! Listen and hear! It is not shame that Mary brings to us; it is glory! She is carrying the holy child that has been prophesied so long ago. And I, your son, am to be involved as her husband and keeper of the child! The family of Jacob is to be honored above all men that this wondrous thing is coming to pass!"
Joseph stumbled to his feet as the women of the village entered with basins and fragrant spices to wash Jacob's body for burial...And Joseph was astonished to see the women were being led by Hannah, Mary's mother! When the day was nearly gone, the men came, lifted Jacob to their shoulders and carried him into the hills to the family burial cave. And this was the journey that Joseph made that day....instead of the one to Jerusalem!
In common decency, Joseph could not leave until after the period of mourning, in spite of the warning by the angel who had said, "Don't delay!" So, he made his plans for Jerusalem even as he grieved for Jacob. But on the final day of mourning, Joseph saw her! "Is it an illusion?" he wondered. HIs head was light from fasting and the heat's sweat trickled into his eyes. But, there was a donkey plodding along carrying the likeness of Mary!
She slid down, took a step toward him, but he lifted a hand to keep her away, for he was unclean from touching his father's face in his goodbye. "Joseph?" she said, and began to tremble, her anticipation draining away. "Joseph, aren't you glad to see me?"
She was different, but her beauty was still there. He saw the dark hair, damp and curling, her sweet mouth, and shining eyes. She had pushed her veil back and he saw her hair brushed in a new way; and she had gold circlets in her ears. Her gown was shimmering blue, like the sky, too fine for Nazareth. He was dazzled and dazed at the same time.
"Joseph, you're in mourning! "Who?" she whispered, as sounds of mourning came from the house. "My father, Jacob," Joseph answered. And Mary responded as her face took on sorrow; "Oh, Joseph, I grieve, too for the love of my beloved's father."
Longing for her hit Joseph--to touch her, hold her-- and relief that she had returned to him. He was overcome with feelings for her, but steadied himself to say, "What brings you back to Nazareth?"
And she answered with a whisper, "My need for you , Joseph."
"Mary, blessed Mary. My blessed, my beloved. Forgive me for ever doubting." Joseph spoke as if she might break. "I know now," and then his voice raised loudly, "I know!" He did crouch then at her feet and kissed the hem of her gown.
(End of story for today)
Quite a beautiful love they have, isn't it? The love of my life hasn't been as glamorous and certainly not as well-known, but it has been very, very good and precious, too, to Jerry and to me. I hope the same for each one of you.
Hoping, also, that these words help to make a more meaningful Christmas for you all.
JO INMN
Monday, December 8, 2014
Saturday, December 6, 2014
JOSEPH'S TROUBLES
Poor Joseph! In our synopsis of the book "TWO FROM GALILEE" by Marjorie Holmes, Mary's father has just now told Joseph, "Mary, in Jerusalem, is definitely pregnant with Someone's baby!
And this means only one thing--you must deal with her, but, I hope, prayerfully and mercifully."
"Deal with her mercifully....?" The words tormented Joseph as he pounded away at his small house. A man's honor of his family was involved---this Joachim knew! But a man's love--no matter how hopeless-- had an even greater honor. "Of this I know!" he thought. He wanted her back, no matter what! But even more the people would talk. She was his life's purpose, his hope, she was his Messiah! Joseph knew he could not give up his--nearly-realized-- dream of Mary.
Then, agony hit him again. Mary might not want to come back! He hurled his hammer into a corner and covered his face with his hands. "Pray," he thought, but he could not. Had God tricked him? If Mary's child was indeed divine, then how did Joseph dare to bring him up as his own in this rude house--and in Nazareth?!
It had begun to rain. "Still no roof," Joseph thought, automatically picking up his tools. He felt dazed and shaken, but walked to a bench where his mother often sat and took her shawl, drawing it over his shoulders. He was very tired, he realized, and shook from his fatigue and the chill. So weary, he lay listening to the cold rain beating down. An odd sense of calm came to him and he began to go over three courses left to him regarding Mary.
Public denunciation, One. Unthinkable, with possible public infamy and even capital punishment. Two. To assert his rights as her espoused, demanding she be brought back to consummate their marriage and assume, legally, the paternity of her child. But, he dare not do that, as that he had just foresworn that he was not the father. The third, to go quickly to the authorities and divorce her without scandal. Perhaps the elders of the court would not insist that he specify adultery as the grounds. They would accept a plea of desertion. Despair threatened to overwhelm him and he turned over on the narrow bench, pulling the cover over his eyes.
He lay there like a wounded animal, enduring his suffering. It seemed like he was awake all night. His mind chased the idea of sleep. "But I am asleep..No, I'm dead and in a coffin. I am in a cold, dark cave..." He was clawing about for the shawl that had fallen on the floor. A chill breeze blew through the open door. A great moon had risen, the light so bright he shielded his eyes. He half-rose, blinking, his blood raging for it seemed he may not be alone. "Who is it?" he demanded. His own voice startled him. Was he talking in his sleep?
"It's all right, Joseph. Fear not. Be calm." Joseph, still only half-awake, heard again, "I am a messenger from God. I am sent to tell you that you must not fear to take Mary as your wife, for that which is conceived in her is indeed of the Holy Spirit, as she has said."
Joseph could not speak. He was powerless to rise. The light had become a blinding flame. The voice continued, "She will bear a son and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins."
"Don't mock me," Joseph whispered, "whoever you are, whether from God or the devil, in God's name, don't torment me further!" But the angel continued, "It is true, Joseph, even as Mary has told you. Remember the prophecy: "Behold, a virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and his name shall be called Emmanuel." The prophecy is to be fulfilled, Joseph, son of David. So delay no longer in taking her as your wife. But know her not until she has borne this Holy One."
Joseph remembered nothing more, but he was awake, and it was dawn, gray and misty and now being shaken by Samuel, his brother, saying, "I told our mother I'd probably find you here. She is upset that you didn't come on home." He continued berating Joseph about his lack of care for their father. Samuel continued in anger, "This thing between you and Mary must be settled as our father is dying. Are you too selfish to see it? Take the step that will let him die in peace!"
Joseph was startled. This was no idle threat! He had known it for a long time. "Forgive me. I'll do everything in my power to make amends. I know what I must do, and I promise, there will be no delay. But, I'll need you to work on the roof for me while I'm gone. Will you, Samuel" "Gone! Gone? Where are you going? You aren't going clear to Jerusalem and bring her back?"
"Even so, Joseph said. "If I hurry I may be able to get going before this day is past! I am going to claim her as my bride! And to bring her home to this house!...And if God has mercy our father, Jacob, will live to hold his grandson on his knees!"
And this means only one thing--you must deal with her, but, I hope, prayerfully and mercifully."
"Deal with her mercifully....?" The words tormented Joseph as he pounded away at his small house. A man's honor of his family was involved---this Joachim knew! But a man's love--no matter how hopeless-- had an even greater honor. "Of this I know!" he thought. He wanted her back, no matter what! But even more the people would talk. She was his life's purpose, his hope, she was his Messiah! Joseph knew he could not give up his--nearly-realized-- dream of Mary.
Then, agony hit him again. Mary might not want to come back! He hurled his hammer into a corner and covered his face with his hands. "Pray," he thought, but he could not. Had God tricked him? If Mary's child was indeed divine, then how did Joseph dare to bring him up as his own in this rude house--and in Nazareth?!
It had begun to rain. "Still no roof," Joseph thought, automatically picking up his tools. He felt dazed and shaken, but walked to a bench where his mother often sat and took her shawl, drawing it over his shoulders. He was very tired, he realized, and shook from his fatigue and the chill. So weary, he lay listening to the cold rain beating down. An odd sense of calm came to him and he began to go over three courses left to him regarding Mary.
Public denunciation, One. Unthinkable, with possible public infamy and even capital punishment. Two. To assert his rights as her espoused, demanding she be brought back to consummate their marriage and assume, legally, the paternity of her child. But, he dare not do that, as that he had just foresworn that he was not the father. The third, to go quickly to the authorities and divorce her without scandal. Perhaps the elders of the court would not insist that he specify adultery as the grounds. They would accept a plea of desertion. Despair threatened to overwhelm him and he turned over on the narrow bench, pulling the cover over his eyes.
He lay there like a wounded animal, enduring his suffering. It seemed like he was awake all night. His mind chased the idea of sleep. "But I am asleep..No, I'm dead and in a coffin. I am in a cold, dark cave..." He was clawing about for the shawl that had fallen on the floor. A chill breeze blew through the open door. A great moon had risen, the light so bright he shielded his eyes. He half-rose, blinking, his blood raging for it seemed he may not be alone. "Who is it?" he demanded. His own voice startled him. Was he talking in his sleep?
"It's all right, Joseph. Fear not. Be calm." Joseph, still only half-awake, heard again, "I am a messenger from God. I am sent to tell you that you must not fear to take Mary as your wife, for that which is conceived in her is indeed of the Holy Spirit, as she has said."
Joseph could not speak. He was powerless to rise. The light had become a blinding flame. The voice continued, "She will bear a son and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins."
"Don't mock me," Joseph whispered, "whoever you are, whether from God or the devil, in God's name, don't torment me further!" But the angel continued, "It is true, Joseph, even as Mary has told you. Remember the prophecy: "Behold, a virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and his name shall be called Emmanuel." The prophecy is to be fulfilled, Joseph, son of David. So delay no longer in taking her as your wife. But know her not until she has borne this Holy One."
Joseph remembered nothing more, but he was awake, and it was dawn, gray and misty and now being shaken by Samuel, his brother, saying, "I told our mother I'd probably find you here. She is upset that you didn't come on home." He continued berating Joseph about his lack of care for their father. Samuel continued in anger, "This thing between you and Mary must be settled as our father is dying. Are you too selfish to see it? Take the step that will let him die in peace!"
Joseph was startled. This was no idle threat! He had known it for a long time. "Forgive me. I'll do everything in my power to make amends. I know what I must do, and I promise, there will be no delay. But, I'll need you to work on the roof for me while I'm gone. Will you, Samuel" "Gone! Gone? Where are you going? You aren't going clear to Jerusalem and bring her back?"
"Even so, Joseph said. "If I hurry I may be able to get going before this day is past! I am going to claim her as my bride! And to bring her home to this house!...And if God has mercy our father, Jacob, will live to hold his grandson on his knees!"
Friday, December 5, 2014
JOACHIM AND JOSEPH DISCUSS MARY
The festival for the Feast of the First Fruits had begun, but Mary did not see Joseph. Her father, Joachim, had found Elizabeth's house and Mary upon the roof. Joachim was alone. And here we continue with the synopsis of M. Holmes, TWO FROM GALILEE. Mary was disappointed to not see Joseph, but tried to make her father welcome. Joachim, too uncomfortable in the grand house, and the changes in his daughter and his sister-in-law that he left with as much grace as he could. but as he was leaving, Mary asked, "Did Joseph come?" Ashamed, Joachim lied and said, "No, but he sent his greetings, " and left quickly.
"To work, to keep building, that's the important thing," Joseph thought, "otherwise hope will die." He plunged doggedly up the path to his unfinished house. "How had this house ever seemed beautiful?" he thought, looking at the dull stone walls. He shook his head, "No. the thing is to work--mix the coarse-gray mortar. Fit the rocks. And it needed-essentially-a roof! Perhaps, then, Nazareth's people will shut their mouths! He--and his family--were worn out with talk--much-- talk! At first, because Mary, his betrothed, had left when their marriage plans were to be made. He had to lie about when she was coming back! "Oh, soon, any day now," he would say.
He had planned to go to the Feast of First Fruits to see Mary, but his father had become ill with drink. Their wineskins were gone, and bloated and breathless, his father could not go for more. Timna, his mother, had begged Joseph to stay. "You're the only one who can handle him," she said.
He had wanted to send Mary a message, but he had no money for parchment needed to send a private message. Maybe Joachim "would bring Mary home," or surely, she would write him, if she didn't come. But, once again, he was bitterly reminded of Mary saying-I am with child. No. No! The perspiration stood out on his face, proving he lived in agony.
Plus, his parents had become angry. Not only with Mary for leaving, but because their son would not stand up for his rights with Mary's parents. "Isn't this bargain to be fulfilled?' they would ask him,"Your father has been hurt. I have been humbled. Let it be known you are going to do something about this misuse of your marriage contract! It may seem harsh, but sometimes there is no other way when there is a just cause!"
But, I have no such cause!" he shouted. And then he took his mother in his arms, tenderly."Please, don't worry. I'm sorry if I failed or caused you grief. Surely, God will send Mary back to me, for us to be married."
He determined, also, to speak to Joachim, and found him, unexpectedly, at his own doorway. Joseph spoke, "In the name of pity, tell me--how is she and when is she coming back to us?" Joachim felt both dread and bitterness, for he blamed Joseph for the pregnancy, forgetting Mary's experience with God, but remembering his own impatient youth. "To answer your question about Mary, Joseph, she is well, considering she is several months with child."
Joseph felt the hurt all over again, and yet determined not to show his hurt. Joachim gazed steadily at Joseph, demanding, "Joseph, tell me what you know of this. Have you brought us dishonor?"
No matter what was said, Joseph thought, if he denied involvement, he would hurt Mary. If he agreed, he would hurt his family, even more. Finally, Joseph said "So long as I live no harm shall come to Mary--no matter what other people may say!" And Joachim knew then that he had been right in trusting that Joseph was the right man for Mary.
Neither Joachim nor Timna, both urging Joseph to stand his ground, could conceive there was value greater than honor--a man's love. However forsaken, bereaved, or humiliated, a man's hopelessly abiding love would prove to be best, always. He wanted her back.
"To work, to keep building, that's the important thing," Joseph thought, "otherwise hope will die." He plunged doggedly up the path to his unfinished house. "How had this house ever seemed beautiful?" he thought, looking at the dull stone walls. He shook his head, "No. the thing is to work--mix the coarse-gray mortar. Fit the rocks. And it needed-essentially-a roof! Perhaps, then, Nazareth's people will shut their mouths! He--and his family--were worn out with talk--much-- talk! At first, because Mary, his betrothed, had left when their marriage plans were to be made. He had to lie about when she was coming back! "Oh, soon, any day now," he would say.
He had planned to go to the Feast of First Fruits to see Mary, but his father had become ill with drink. Their wineskins were gone, and bloated and breathless, his father could not go for more. Timna, his mother, had begged Joseph to stay. "You're the only one who can handle him," she said.
He had wanted to send Mary a message, but he had no money for parchment needed to send a private message. Maybe Joachim "would bring Mary home," or surely, she would write him, if she didn't come. But, once again, he was bitterly reminded of Mary saying-I am with child. No. No! The perspiration stood out on his face, proving he lived in agony.
Plus, his parents had become angry. Not only with Mary for leaving, but because their son would not stand up for his rights with Mary's parents. "Isn't this bargain to be fulfilled?' they would ask him,"Your father has been hurt. I have been humbled. Let it be known you are going to do something about this misuse of your marriage contract! It may seem harsh, but sometimes there is no other way when there is a just cause!"
But, I have no such cause!" he shouted. And then he took his mother in his arms, tenderly."Please, don't worry. I'm sorry if I failed or caused you grief. Surely, God will send Mary back to me, for us to be married."
He determined, also, to speak to Joachim, and found him, unexpectedly, at his own doorway. Joseph spoke, "In the name of pity, tell me--how is she and when is she coming back to us?" Joachim felt both dread and bitterness, for he blamed Joseph for the pregnancy, forgetting Mary's experience with God, but remembering his own impatient youth. "To answer your question about Mary, Joseph, she is well, considering she is several months with child."
Joseph felt the hurt all over again, and yet determined not to show his hurt. Joachim gazed steadily at Joseph, demanding, "Joseph, tell me what you know of this. Have you brought us dishonor?"
No matter what was said, Joseph thought, if he denied involvement, he would hurt Mary. If he agreed, he would hurt his family, even more. Finally, Joseph said "So long as I live no harm shall come to Mary--no matter what other people may say!" And Joachim knew then that he had been right in trusting that Joseph was the right man for Mary.
Neither Joachim nor Timna, both urging Joseph to stand his ground, could conceive there was value greater than honor--a man's love. However forsaken, bereaved, or humiliated, a man's hopelessly abiding love would prove to be best, always. He wanted her back.
Thursday, December 4, 2014
TWO MOMS TO-BE
As the days go by for the two mothers-to-be, we once again return to Jerusalem. And also to a synopsis of TWO FROM GALILEE, by M. Holmes. As to the two mothers, as the weeks progressed, Elizabeth took Mary around Jerusalem. Mary loved the city and its history. The temple was most beautiful and the stories of the Ark of the Covenant entrancing. The Ark had been lost and returned by King David, who danced in the street at its re-placement in the Temple. Then, it was once again lost, stolen my some unknown, and the Holy of Holies was now without the ark, yet filled with the Presence of God.
Mary suffered for the animals being sacrificed. She hated the blood that covered Zachariah, her uncle, from his work. She wondered why God needed these sacrifices, as it just seemed wrong! But just as quickly, Mary felt ashamed for doubting God's plan and said, "Please, Lord, forgive me! You must have a good reason for needing this blood from innocent creatures. I am sorry I doubted you."
The two women rejoiced over their pregnancies, each sure they were carrying sons. Elizabeth said, "A son, who will be a man of destiny--with all the penalties that implies." "Penalties?" Mary asked, "What do you mean?"
"It's a serious thing to be a leader sent by God. There will be responsibilities, terrible responsibilities. If this is true of priests, and it is, how much more to be a prophet or a King? The mothers of such men pay dearly for the honor." Mary couldn't speak. She remembered hideous things had happened to those in history--prophets and kings--who had suffered. Mary turned white with anguish and seeing how white Mary had become, Elizabeth hugged her closely. "Forgive me, Mary, for going on so. Or for causing you to worry. My son--greatly as I love him already, I know that he will be as nothing compared to the child you are giving to the world. We must both trust in the Lord who will bring this all about. And we have no right to be afraid."
"But this child, what will he be like, this child I carry?" Mary cried out. "I have been told he is to be the Messiah! the Messiah! I've heard all my life of His coming! But, I'm confused. Will he come as a King? Will he reign over Israel? Or over the world? Tell me, my aunt. You have studied! Will he have to do battle with our enemies to bring the kingdom about? Is he going to bring an end to suffering? As a nation or an end to all suffering?"
Elizabeth, with great wisdom, answered, "No one knows, my dear. God reveals only as much as we can accept. Even the prophets don't know. Some said he would be a king descending in triumph and some say he will be a poor man riding an ass." Her eyes shone, "Only on one thing they all agreed--He is coming! And there will be another before him who will help to pave the way."
"And the time is upon us," Elizabeth continued. "You and I are a part of it. What our roles are isn't as yet clear. We can only wait and see. But, the mystery is part of it! The waiting patiently not knowing, only trusting--trying to be worthy of whatever is to be. To know, convicted in our hearts," she cried softly, " yet not really knowing at all! That's life, Mary. And it's also about God! And who can really know God, even after a revelation?" she asked." And who can tell another the essence of a revelation he or she has had? He can't; we can't. We can only wait and find out the meaning, each of us alone, slowly and gradually!"
Mary stared at Elizabeth transfixed. And Joseph? What of my beloved? What is his role in all of this?
The Feast of the First Fruits was almost upon them. Perhaps, even now Joseph was heading for Jerusalem!"
Mary suffered for the animals being sacrificed. She hated the blood that covered Zachariah, her uncle, from his work. She wondered why God needed these sacrifices, as it just seemed wrong! But just as quickly, Mary felt ashamed for doubting God's plan and said, "Please, Lord, forgive me! You must have a good reason for needing this blood from innocent creatures. I am sorry I doubted you."
The two women rejoiced over their pregnancies, each sure they were carrying sons. Elizabeth said, "A son, who will be a man of destiny--with all the penalties that implies." "Penalties?" Mary asked, "What do you mean?"
"It's a serious thing to be a leader sent by God. There will be responsibilities, terrible responsibilities. If this is true of priests, and it is, how much more to be a prophet or a King? The mothers of such men pay dearly for the honor." Mary couldn't speak. She remembered hideous things had happened to those in history--prophets and kings--who had suffered. Mary turned white with anguish and seeing how white Mary had become, Elizabeth hugged her closely. "Forgive me, Mary, for going on so. Or for causing you to worry. My son--greatly as I love him already, I know that he will be as nothing compared to the child you are giving to the world. We must both trust in the Lord who will bring this all about. And we have no right to be afraid."
"But this child, what will he be like, this child I carry?" Mary cried out. "I have been told he is to be the Messiah! the Messiah! I've heard all my life of His coming! But, I'm confused. Will he come as a King? Will he reign over Israel? Or over the world? Tell me, my aunt. You have studied! Will he have to do battle with our enemies to bring the kingdom about? Is he going to bring an end to suffering? As a nation or an end to all suffering?"
Elizabeth, with great wisdom, answered, "No one knows, my dear. God reveals only as much as we can accept. Even the prophets don't know. Some said he would be a king descending in triumph and some say he will be a poor man riding an ass." Her eyes shone, "Only on one thing they all agreed--He is coming! And there will be another before him who will help to pave the way."
"And the time is upon us," Elizabeth continued. "You and I are a part of it. What our roles are isn't as yet clear. We can only wait and see. But, the mystery is part of it! The waiting patiently not knowing, only trusting--trying to be worthy of whatever is to be. To know, convicted in our hearts," she cried softly, " yet not really knowing at all! That's life, Mary. And it's also about God! And who can really know God, even after a revelation?" she asked." And who can tell another the essence of a revelation he or she has had? He can't; we can't. We can only wait and find out the meaning, each of us alone, slowly and gradually!"
Mary stared at Elizabeth transfixed. And Joseph? What of my beloved? What is his role in all of this?
The Feast of the First Fruits was almost upon them. Perhaps, even now Joseph was heading for Jerusalem!"
Wednesday, December 3, 2014
AT HOME WITH ELIZABETH
Again, let me give you a reminder that this major story of the bible has been flushed out to reveal the feelings and thoughts of its major characters. TWO FROM GALILEE, by M. Holmes tells us what Mary, Joseph, and their families may have endured and enjoyed during this historical time. Let's get on with the story, now taking place near Jerusalem:
Mary could now hear God in new ways: at dawn when the Temple's trumpets heralded in the new day and even the hills around her sounded with holy signals of the wild, she was filled with a new strangeness of awe, homesickness, and happiness. Even Elizabeth's home spoke of God, rich with warmth and calm. And color! Yet, its whiteness glistened like radiant sunshine or the purest star!
Near Zachariah, Mary felt a new adoration. His hair and beard, white and shining, fit well in his home. Zachariah's hands and eyes, each capable of complete communication, struck Mary as being princely, yet kind, and she loved serving him at table, bringing him a sweet, and sometimes even washing his old, tired feet. Surely, he had the ear of the Almighty, for his purity and power flowed like the breath of God.
Her anxieties had not disappeared, however. She longed desperately for Joseph, every moment. What was he thinking about right now? What were his plans? Would he ever truly believe her? Would her mother ever believe? Does father still believe? Then, Mary would remember the love she had for God and God's love for her. She believed God had brought her to Elizabeth to bless her and put her at peace for what was ahead. So, Mary prayed, "Lord, I ask to be given peace and the will to be worthy of the honor you have given me--to bear your son!"
While Mary adjusted to gracious living, Elizabeth taught her to work with mosaics, and they talked together while they worked. Elizabeth spoke about Zachariah in loving terms, teaching Mary the workings of the Temple priests. "Only once in a lifetime does the Temple rule allow a priest of our faith to serve in the innermost sanctuary, where God Himself abides. It was on this day for Zachariah, in the secret sanctum, that my husband had an experience that took away his speech. When he came out to address the multitude praying outside, he could not speak."
Elizabeth went on, "The priests work very hard in the Temple--exhausting work of lifting heavy animal carcasses to flay and scrape them, drain their blood, and carve them for offerings. The older men suffer most under this work." She smiled a wifely smile, "Maybe the Lord in his wisdom realized my husband would be a great comfort to me while we await our little one!"
Mary could not help but notice the difference between Elizabeth's life and her own simple life--Hannah's life! Two sisters, radically different; here it is calm and gracious, while her home in Nazareth was all noise, clashing and confusion. Mary wondered, "Where do I belong? Why did God bring me here to see this dignity and grace? Was there a specific reason? Was it to arouse such royal blood as does flow in my veins, to make me ready for some responsibilities of which I am unaware?"
She must remember that she carried a King.
I hope you are enjoying this story, fleshed out with the feelings of Mary, Joseph and others. Of course, we don't know what they really felt, but we can guess, perhaps rightly, maybe not. Whatever we may think, it is a joy to remember how very human they were at this time so long ago. And I believe God would like this story and its humanness, because He wants us to know that He loves the creatures that he made so long ago. And He called us "humans."
Lovingly,
Jo INMN
Mary could now hear God in new ways: at dawn when the Temple's trumpets heralded in the new day and even the hills around her sounded with holy signals of the wild, she was filled with a new strangeness of awe, homesickness, and happiness. Even Elizabeth's home spoke of God, rich with warmth and calm. And color! Yet, its whiteness glistened like radiant sunshine or the purest star!
Near Zachariah, Mary felt a new adoration. His hair and beard, white and shining, fit well in his home. Zachariah's hands and eyes, each capable of complete communication, struck Mary as being princely, yet kind, and she loved serving him at table, bringing him a sweet, and sometimes even washing his old, tired feet. Surely, he had the ear of the Almighty, for his purity and power flowed like the breath of God.
Her anxieties had not disappeared, however. She longed desperately for Joseph, every moment. What was he thinking about right now? What were his plans? Would he ever truly believe her? Would her mother ever believe? Does father still believe? Then, Mary would remember the love she had for God and God's love for her. She believed God had brought her to Elizabeth to bless her and put her at peace for what was ahead. So, Mary prayed, "Lord, I ask to be given peace and the will to be worthy of the honor you have given me--to bear your son!"
While Mary adjusted to gracious living, Elizabeth taught her to work with mosaics, and they talked together while they worked. Elizabeth spoke about Zachariah in loving terms, teaching Mary the workings of the Temple priests. "Only once in a lifetime does the Temple rule allow a priest of our faith to serve in the innermost sanctuary, where God Himself abides. It was on this day for Zachariah, in the secret sanctum, that my husband had an experience that took away his speech. When he came out to address the multitude praying outside, he could not speak."
Elizabeth went on, "The priests work very hard in the Temple--exhausting work of lifting heavy animal carcasses to flay and scrape them, drain their blood, and carve them for offerings. The older men suffer most under this work." She smiled a wifely smile, "Maybe the Lord in his wisdom realized my husband would be a great comfort to me while we await our little one!"
Mary could not help but notice the difference between Elizabeth's life and her own simple life--Hannah's life! Two sisters, radically different; here it is calm and gracious, while her home in Nazareth was all noise, clashing and confusion. Mary wondered, "Where do I belong? Why did God bring me here to see this dignity and grace? Was there a specific reason? Was it to arouse such royal blood as does flow in my veins, to make me ready for some responsibilities of which I am unaware?"
She must remember that she carried a King.
I hope you are enjoying this story, fleshed out with the feelings of Mary, Joseph and others. Of course, we don't know what they really felt, but we can guess, perhaps rightly, maybe not. Whatever we may think, it is a joy to remember how very human they were at this time so long ago. And I believe God would like this story and its humanness, because He wants us to know that He loves the creatures that he made so long ago. And He called us "humans."
Lovingly,
Jo INMN
Tuesday, December 2, 2014
TRAVELS AND CONFIRMATIONS
Mary is on her way to visit her aunt, in the next part of our story, thanks to the book, TWO FROM GALILEE, authored by Marjorie Holmes and simplified here. Aunt Elizabeth is also expecting a child. Joseph had waited for Mary on the street leading to Jerusalem near their homes, to wish her a good journey and show her his love.
But before any words were said, Joachim looked left and said, "They're coming! They're coming!" Esau, Mary's crippled brother, saw among the asses a few horses, and asked that someone might lift him up for a ride. "Please!" He said," I want to know how it feels!" But Joachim turned to Mary in distress. "Don't go, Mary!" he said. "Please stay here with me!"
"I can't , Father," she cried out. "I must go. You and mother have already suffered over this." Her heart was beating fast and she looked toward the men and horses arriving. Frightened, she wanted very much to just go home. But, instead, she forced herself forward, saying, "I must...go!"
Her fate was settled and she kissed Esau, who had begun to cry. Her father would have lifted her to the donkey, but Joseph had reached her first. Filled with pain, he said to her, "Don't stay long, Mary. We've so much to talk about, so much I must know." The animals and people were restless to leave, and Joseph found her eyes and could only say, "Oh, Mary...Mary!" And she was gone, leaving behind all that she loved in Galilee.
On and on they went upon the endless winding road. Across plains, then east across the Jordan, and up into the mountains where Mary worried about falling off the donkey if sleep over-took her. At night she shivered from the cold ground as she lay in her wool cloak, pulling it closer to her body.
One night they slept in a cave. The men, sitting around a warm fire at the mouth of the cave, thought it could be the same cave David, later the King, took refuge in when hiding from King Saul. but Mary, weak with home-sickness and longing, could only think of Joseph. "Oh, Joseph, my Joseph--you must believe in me!"
Toward evening of the fourth day, tired, but excited, they neared their destination. But, Mary, half sick with the journey, feared she might not find her way to Ain-Karem and the home of her aunt. But the couple who had been like parents to her on the journey, Hagar and her husband, would make sure she found the home of her aunt, Elizabeth.
As Mary journeyed, Elizabeth felt frustrated. Her couch seemed awfully small, as her precious bulge crowded her as she tried to sleep. Growing daily, her body thankfully accepted this belated gift from God. Yet, she had not felt the child move, and she was nearing six months.
Six months since her husband came home, struck dumb, white and shaken by some experience at the Temple. And that night, lying with him to comfort him, he had come within her with power and such strength! Then, she knew....knew that his seed had quickened her and she wept with joy. So many years had gone by without this miracle. Yet, now....she had been overcome with thanksgiving and dared not speak.
Elizabeth felt a sense of fear. What if she was too old? Her black hair showed white wings at her temples. She had a noble, but not stern, face; one might even call it a "sweet face." Yet, her anticipation mounted in her as she felt convicted that something important was about to happen. She settled on her couch once more and half-asleep, she dreamed. Suddenly, she became wide awake by a loud pounding at the thick oak door leading outside. Alarmed, she thought first of robbers, then a voice--sweet and young--startled her with its familiarity, "Don't be afraid, Aunt Elizabeth! It's me, Mary! Your sister's daughter, Mary! It's only me!"
"Mary!" Elizabeth threw on her robe, grabbed the night lamp, and hurried to the door. "Forgive me for disturbing you so late," Mary explained, "We took the wrong fork in the road." And she turned and thanked the man who had escorted her to the door. Arrangements were made to stable the donkey Mary had ridden and as the man said his farewells, he blurted out, "Forgive me, but I...I feel that some great honor has come to me this night." And he left down the path.
The two women embraced and then began to just look at each other. Elizabeth lifted her lamp to Mary's face, both sun-burned and dusty from the road. Mary said, "Truly, I'm not little Mary anymore, dear aunt; I'm a woman grown." "It becomes you," her aunt said softly. "And just as lovely as a woman." "I had to come," Mary explained. "I see that God has finally favored you with seed that is also fated to be holy seed. And I now know that my aunt--and only my aunt--will understand!"
"Mary!" Elizabeth's face filled with joy! Then, "Oh...Mary!" Her hands flew to the bulge in her body, but this time she felt thrilled with the sweet throbbing! "It moves! It moves! My little one moves!" She turned to Zachariah, her husband, the slight man who had appeared just awakening in the doorway. "Oh, husband! Our baby moves!"
Tears ran down Elizabeth's cheeks, mingling with the kisses she brought to Mary's face, and her hair, and her hands. And Elizabeth cried out, "Mary, blessed are you among women! And blessed is the fruit of your womb!" She knelt and kissed Mary's dirty feet.
"Then you know?" Mary said, "You already know how it is with me, dear aunt?"
"I know. I knew it the instant my own child leapt! How is it that I have deserved to be visited by the mother of my Lord?"
His mother.....The mother of their Lord. Dazed and shaken, Mary stood, silently being confirmed. "It was true then; it was true!" (End of today's story.)
It will soon be time for Christmas cards and letters. On those sent from this house, I am going to ask folks who are close to our family how they might have handled this interesting and troublesome situation at their own homes. What would your Christmas letter have looked like if you had a situation like Mary's mother and dad?
Food for thought. See you tomorrow, God willing.
Jo INMN
But before any words were said, Joachim looked left and said, "They're coming! They're coming!" Esau, Mary's crippled brother, saw among the asses a few horses, and asked that someone might lift him up for a ride. "Please!" He said," I want to know how it feels!" But Joachim turned to Mary in distress. "Don't go, Mary!" he said. "Please stay here with me!"
"I can't , Father," she cried out. "I must go. You and mother have already suffered over this." Her heart was beating fast and she looked toward the men and horses arriving. Frightened, she wanted very much to just go home. But, instead, she forced herself forward, saying, "I must...go!"
Her fate was settled and she kissed Esau, who had begun to cry. Her father would have lifted her to the donkey, but Joseph had reached her first. Filled with pain, he said to her, "Don't stay long, Mary. We've so much to talk about, so much I must know." The animals and people were restless to leave, and Joseph found her eyes and could only say, "Oh, Mary...Mary!" And she was gone, leaving behind all that she loved in Galilee.
On and on they went upon the endless winding road. Across plains, then east across the Jordan, and up into the mountains where Mary worried about falling off the donkey if sleep over-took her. At night she shivered from the cold ground as she lay in her wool cloak, pulling it closer to her body.
One night they slept in a cave. The men, sitting around a warm fire at the mouth of the cave, thought it could be the same cave David, later the King, took refuge in when hiding from King Saul. but Mary, weak with home-sickness and longing, could only think of Joseph. "Oh, Joseph, my Joseph--you must believe in me!"
Toward evening of the fourth day, tired, but excited, they neared their destination. But, Mary, half sick with the journey, feared she might not find her way to Ain-Karem and the home of her aunt. But the couple who had been like parents to her on the journey, Hagar and her husband, would make sure she found the home of her aunt, Elizabeth.
As Mary journeyed, Elizabeth felt frustrated. Her couch seemed awfully small, as her precious bulge crowded her as she tried to sleep. Growing daily, her body thankfully accepted this belated gift from God. Yet, she had not felt the child move, and she was nearing six months.
Six months since her husband came home, struck dumb, white and shaken by some experience at the Temple. And that night, lying with him to comfort him, he had come within her with power and such strength! Then, she knew....knew that his seed had quickened her and she wept with joy. So many years had gone by without this miracle. Yet, now....she had been overcome with thanksgiving and dared not speak.
Elizabeth felt a sense of fear. What if she was too old? Her black hair showed white wings at her temples. She had a noble, but not stern, face; one might even call it a "sweet face." Yet, her anticipation mounted in her as she felt convicted that something important was about to happen. She settled on her couch once more and half-asleep, she dreamed. Suddenly, she became wide awake by a loud pounding at the thick oak door leading outside. Alarmed, she thought first of robbers, then a voice--sweet and young--startled her with its familiarity, "Don't be afraid, Aunt Elizabeth! It's me, Mary! Your sister's daughter, Mary! It's only me!"
"Mary!" Elizabeth threw on her robe, grabbed the night lamp, and hurried to the door. "Forgive me for disturbing you so late," Mary explained, "We took the wrong fork in the road." And she turned and thanked the man who had escorted her to the door. Arrangements were made to stable the donkey Mary had ridden and as the man said his farewells, he blurted out, "Forgive me, but I...I feel that some great honor has come to me this night." And he left down the path.
The two women embraced and then began to just look at each other. Elizabeth lifted her lamp to Mary's face, both sun-burned and dusty from the road. Mary said, "Truly, I'm not little Mary anymore, dear aunt; I'm a woman grown." "It becomes you," her aunt said softly. "And just as lovely as a woman." "I had to come," Mary explained. "I see that God has finally favored you with seed that is also fated to be holy seed. And I now know that my aunt--and only my aunt--will understand!"
"Mary!" Elizabeth's face filled with joy! Then, "Oh...Mary!" Her hands flew to the bulge in her body, but this time she felt thrilled with the sweet throbbing! "It moves! It moves! My little one moves!" She turned to Zachariah, her husband, the slight man who had appeared just awakening in the doorway. "Oh, husband! Our baby moves!"
Tears ran down Elizabeth's cheeks, mingling with the kisses she brought to Mary's face, and her hair, and her hands. And Elizabeth cried out, "Mary, blessed are you among women! And blessed is the fruit of your womb!" She knelt and kissed Mary's dirty feet.
"Then you know?" Mary said, "You already know how it is with me, dear aunt?"
"I know. I knew it the instant my own child leapt! How is it that I have deserved to be visited by the mother of my Lord?"
His mother.....The mother of their Lord. Dazed and shaken, Mary stood, silently being confirmed. "It was true then; it was true!" (End of today's story.)
It will soon be time for Christmas cards and letters. On those sent from this house, I am going to ask folks who are close to our family how they might have handled this interesting and troublesome situation at their own homes. What would your Christmas letter have looked like if you had a situation like Mary's mother and dad?
Food for thought. See you tomorrow, God willing.
Jo INMN
Monday, December 1, 2014
OFF TOWARD JERUSALEM
We continue the love story of Mary and Joseph, the two whom God honored with the birthing and raising of His Son, Jesus. Originally found in the book, TWO FROM GALILEE by Marjorie Holmes, the story told here is not a quote but a synopsis of her story. Ms. Holmes book is a definite suggested read! To continue....
Joseph, having just heard Mary's declaration, stumbled down the hill toward his home. He had heard her news and had stayed composed. But he was not composed. No, he staggered drunkenly, not caring, hoping he might fall over some precipice. Longing, even, to die. "Surely," he thought, "God will now be merciful to me--and kill me!"
"Mercy? God?" He laughed aloud, thinking God's mercy was absurd! "I need wine, perhaps to sleep, or get drunk! He regretted his thoughts. "No, he was being foolish. Just enough wine to let him sleep, sleep off this awful pain!" At his father's shop, he groped in the dark for the hidden sack of wine,.
Timna, his mother, appeared at the door. "My son, is something wrong? she asked. "No, no, Joseph answered quickly. "I didn't feel like sleeping. I was just walking in the hills. Go back to bed, mother, I am fine." "Is Mary all right?" Timna probed. "No, it's nothing, mother, she is just tired," Joseph said. "She is going to visit an aunt near Jerusalem." "But, why?" Timna wanted to know, "with wedding preparations--Joseph, tell me. You haven't done anything...."" her eyes searched his, and saw anguish cover his face. His next words made Timna gasp. "You mustn't think evil of her, mother." Those words made Timna gasp again, "Oh, no, son. That would be the very last thing I would think of Mary." She bade him good night and left, still feeling very puzzled about Mary and why she was leaving at this busy time.
The following day, at Mary's house, Hannah plunged into the work of preparing Mary for her journey toward Jerusalem. "Keep busy," she thought, "get Mary out of the village!" Keep her away from Joseph, and the village's suspicious looks and wagging tongues." Another thought quickly moved in, "It cannot be true! I may deserve this grief, but not Joachim! Wasn't it enough that their first son had a twisted body and was blind? Esau. And now, Mary!" Another thought followed, "Let Mary visit Elizabeth for awhile. Let her learn what it is like to carry a child, to worry over a child." All this time her hands were busy packing some things her sister, Elizabeth, might like.
Meanwhile, Joachim looked into finding safe passage for Mary journeying to Elizabeth's home in Ain-Karen. "Four days journey," he thought, "but so close to harvest time, not many will be going to Jerusalem."
At this time, Joseph's father, Jacob, having heard of Mary's journey, came up the hill, out of breath, ready to solve Joachim's problem. He spoke out loudly, "If it's true Mary wants to go visiting, there's a little company from Magdala passing this way tomorrow. Mary could meet them at the fork in the road by noon and ride to safety." But Joachim wanted to know, "What sort of people are they? And how do you know them? Magdala's known for wickedness. I'm not sure...." He offered Jacob a goblet of wine, which Jacob took, answering between gulps, "Oh, but these are good people, fishermen and their wives, a tradesman or two. They'll look after her and yet have a good time."
Jacob knew he was evading the real issue, but it was too late to back away now. "Hannah may be right," he thought. "Did Mary lie?"
The next day, they allowed Mary's brother, Esau, to walk along, leading the donkey, feeling his way through the darkness, keeping to the back streets. Out in the open country, Esau echoed the birds calling from the trees.
Mary could not help thinking, "Perhaps my people, Joseph, too, are anxious for me to leave." But then, there was Joseph waiting for her in the shade of the cypress trees! (End today's story.)
I just finished writing a Christmas letter to friends and family. I was very absorbed in the story, especially the families of Mary and Joseph. Think about it! What would it be like to be told a story like Mary told to her family and to Joseph? How would a family react today in our world? Even so, what must it have felt like for Hannah and Joachim, and most of all, Joseph and even Mary? It is a testamony of love and of faith to believe God would come to this earth. How is it for you?
It is well with me, glad for faith and for love,
Jo INMN
Joseph, having just heard Mary's declaration, stumbled down the hill toward his home. He had heard her news and had stayed composed. But he was not composed. No, he staggered drunkenly, not caring, hoping he might fall over some precipice. Longing, even, to die. "Surely," he thought, "God will now be merciful to me--and kill me!"
"Mercy? God?" He laughed aloud, thinking God's mercy was absurd! "I need wine, perhaps to sleep, or get drunk! He regretted his thoughts. "No, he was being foolish. Just enough wine to let him sleep, sleep off this awful pain!" At his father's shop, he groped in the dark for the hidden sack of wine,.
Timna, his mother, appeared at the door. "My son, is something wrong? she asked. "No, no, Joseph answered quickly. "I didn't feel like sleeping. I was just walking in the hills. Go back to bed, mother, I am fine." "Is Mary all right?" Timna probed. "No, it's nothing, mother, she is just tired," Joseph said. "She is going to visit an aunt near Jerusalem." "But, why?" Timna wanted to know, "with wedding preparations--Joseph, tell me. You haven't done anything...."" her eyes searched his, and saw anguish cover his face. His next words made Timna gasp. "You mustn't think evil of her, mother." Those words made Timna gasp again, "Oh, no, son. That would be the very last thing I would think of Mary." She bade him good night and left, still feeling very puzzled about Mary and why she was leaving at this busy time.
The following day, at Mary's house, Hannah plunged into the work of preparing Mary for her journey toward Jerusalem. "Keep busy," she thought, "get Mary out of the village!" Keep her away from Joseph, and the village's suspicious looks and wagging tongues." Another thought quickly moved in, "It cannot be true! I may deserve this grief, but not Joachim! Wasn't it enough that their first son had a twisted body and was blind? Esau. And now, Mary!" Another thought followed, "Let Mary visit Elizabeth for awhile. Let her learn what it is like to carry a child, to worry over a child." All this time her hands were busy packing some things her sister, Elizabeth, might like.
Meanwhile, Joachim looked into finding safe passage for Mary journeying to Elizabeth's home in Ain-Karen. "Four days journey," he thought, "but so close to harvest time, not many will be going to Jerusalem."
At this time, Joseph's father, Jacob, having heard of Mary's journey, came up the hill, out of breath, ready to solve Joachim's problem. He spoke out loudly, "If it's true Mary wants to go visiting, there's a little company from Magdala passing this way tomorrow. Mary could meet them at the fork in the road by noon and ride to safety." But Joachim wanted to know, "What sort of people are they? And how do you know them? Magdala's known for wickedness. I'm not sure...." He offered Jacob a goblet of wine, which Jacob took, answering between gulps, "Oh, but these are good people, fishermen and their wives, a tradesman or two. They'll look after her and yet have a good time."
Jacob knew he was evading the real issue, but it was too late to back away now. "Hannah may be right," he thought. "Did Mary lie?"
The next day, they allowed Mary's brother, Esau, to walk along, leading the donkey, feeling his way through the darkness, keeping to the back streets. Out in the open country, Esau echoed the birds calling from the trees.
Mary could not help thinking, "Perhaps my people, Joseph, too, are anxious for me to leave." But then, there was Joseph waiting for her in the shade of the cypress trees! (End today's story.)
I just finished writing a Christmas letter to friends and family. I was very absorbed in the story, especially the families of Mary and Joseph. Think about it! What would it be like to be told a story like Mary told to her family and to Joseph? How would a family react today in our world? Even so, what must it have felt like for Hannah and Joachim, and most of all, Joseph and even Mary? It is a testamony of love and of faith to believe God would come to this earth. How is it for you?
It is well with me, glad for faith and for love,
Jo INMN
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