Daily Meditation for December 16, 2024

A road trip introduces the story of Jesus’s birth in Bethlehem. Pictures usually depict Mary riding serenely on a donkey, which is being led by Joseph through a pleasant landscape. But historians have described what it really was like to take a trip in those days. They had to travel 90 miles from their home in Nazareth to Bethlehem. There, they registered for a tax census demanded by the government. The trip would take about a week on foot on dusty, twisty and dangerous roads. Travelers would group together in a caravan that provided help, companionship and a bit more safety. It is unlikely that Joseph had a donkey as they were poor. Mary was in the last phase of pregnancy and needed rest periods. Food and water were carried from home and there was no shelter along the roadsides. During this coming week, let’s reflect on Mary and Joseph’s faith, trust in God and courage as they walked to Bethlehem.

By Mary Jackle, OSB