Time draws us to Bethlehem

It does not matter that we feel every jolt, rock and rut in the road.
It does not matter that we are at the limit of our strength.
It does not matter that Mary holds her aching middle.

Next time this week the boy will be born.
Mary will wrap him in nappies.
Joseph will organise a manger and hay.
The smell of the animals and love for each other will fill the stable.

What else do we need if God is amongst us?

Time draws us to Bethlehem
and there is no place for the newcomers.
Mary rejoices
as the words of the Angel echo in her;
as Joseph comes back to her,
as God draws both of them after Him;
as a sign from heaven is given in the blessing of Elisabeth.

Next time this week the boy will be born.
Mary will wrap him in nappies.
Joseph will organise a manger and hay.
The smell of the animals and love for each other will fill the stable.

What else do we need if God is amongst us?

Mary and Joseph are still on the way:
love glows
tears are transformed into joy,
The snares of the serpent lose their influence,

Mary and Joseph praise God’s love more than wine:
The Creator will become a baby.
Everyone will be welcome to greet him.

Next time this week the boy will be born.
Mary will wrap him in nappies.
Joseph will organise a manger and hay.
The smell of the animals and love for each other will fill the stable.

What else do we need if God is amongst us?

Fr Stan, Earley.