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Eyelids already closed, her covered head began to droop as
well. The journey from Galilee to Bethlehem was one long, dry path consisting
of a many day journey. Knowing that they would be gone for several weeks, the
couple had prepared well, regardless of their humble circumstances. Great care
had been taken to prepare a borrowed donkey and the food and bedding necessary.
The husband, Joseph, was constantly amazed at his wife’s diligence and
determination. Preparing for a long journey is always a difficult task, but in
her current condition, it was nothing short of a miracle that she was able to continue
all the way to Bethlehem. Her first-born child would soon be arriving and while
they didn’t know how much longer it would be they hoped to at least be in the
city upon the child’s arrival.
Her head suddenly snapped up as she jolted awake. Riding atop
donkey is not exactly a pleasant task, but her husband wouldn’t allow her to
walk any farther. Honestly, she wasn’t sure she could walk at this stage
anyways. Every step felt as heavy as lead when she tried to shuffle forward. In
the last hour, a sharp pain had begun to pulse throughout her body. When Joseph
turned and saw her doubled over in pain, he quickly helped her onto the donkey
and began to lead them both towards the city.
As they neared the city, fear gripped her heart. She knew
that her time was nearing, but she was so far from her mother and sisters and
anyone who could help her. How could she possibly fulfil this alone? The sheer
panic of pre-motherhood was enough to keep her thoughts occupied for the entire
journey. Keeping a prayer in her heart and a hand resting gently on her
stomach, she was led into the unknown.
