The journey to Bethlehem was long and challenging. Each night finding a safe, dry place to sleep, each day trudging the sometimes dangerous and slippery paths. Joseph took a heavily pregnant Mary to the town of his ancestors, but there was no hospital, no hotel, not even a home prepared to welcome this small family. The whole world oblivious to the saviour's arrival.
This advent, a knitted nativity beautifully made by a friend of mine has travelled the homes of Ashby and occasionally further afield. Different children have taken it home each night, and families have talked together about what the journey was like for Mary and Joseph, and what is like today for those who also do not have a safe place to sleep at night. They have thought about the marvellous hope that is presented at Christmas and prayed together that Jesus would be welcome here in our hearts, our families, our communities and our nation.
Do not despise the day of small beginnings - Jesus came into the world as a little baby, he welcomes little children to him. Sometimes there is a journey that has to be travelled before the promises are fulfilled, but don't despise the journey - it could be the start of something amazing.
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