Yet Another Pre-Christmas Thought from a Random Mind

            Women get pregnant all the time. It’s the right of passage to motherhood. It’s something that has transpired throughout the years, generation by generation. But Mary was different. She was hand selected by God to carry HIS Son. The angel Gabriel was sent by God to deliver this message; Mary would give birth to a son who shall be called Jesus. I think it’s safe to say no one has had an experience like that before that time or since. So while women can relate to the experience itself, there is no way they could ever relate to how it all took place.

            Joseph was an honorable man. We know that because when he found out Mary was pregnant he decided he would help her because of the stigma that was borne out of what appeared to be an illegitimate pregnancy. He knew he couldn’t marry her under these conditions, but wanted to do the honorable thing.  Then Gabriel came to Joseph and told him it was all right for him to take Mary as his wife for she was pregnant by the hand of God. 

            The pregnant Mary endured travelling riding bare back on a donkey the entire trip that she and Joseph were to take. Speculation from scholars says the trip from Nazareth to Bethlehem was roughly 90 miles. They probably travelled about 20 miles per day making their trip take approximately 4 ½ days. Even though there were no rooms in the Inn, resting in a stable was probably a welcome break after their long trip. A donkey would play another prominent role in the life of Jesus as he entered into Jerusalem on the back of one as an adult. This beast of burden was a symbol of the simplicity demonstrated by Christ. Thought he was worthy of it, Jesus requested no gold covered carriage or throne. Rather he very specifically sent his disciples to fetch a donkey for his entrance. It was a sign of not only basic transportation, but a clear indication of  humility. This is an important trait in any follower of Christ. God is greater, I am the lesser. He is to take the lead in our lives, not us. 

In his name & for his glory,

RL Keller

Bread of Life Ministries