Difficult Journey

Devotional for Wednesday, December 19, 2001 by Heather Morton

Last summer, our family journeyed across Canada. It was a wonderful holiday, and we experienced many new things. It was a difficult journey at times, too. We never knew what to expect with a three- and a six-year-old in the back seat. But we created some wonderful memories.

Each night, we stopped and set up our tent. We rarely spent more than one night in any place. When we got up in the morning, we took down the tent, and were back on the road again. It was quite wearisome at times, and we were very glad to reach our relative's home on the fourth day, where we could stay in one place for a few days.

Recalling our summer holiday, I have also been thinking about Mary and Joseph's journey. They had to carry everything with them: water, food, perhaps a tent. They stopped only to sleep, as they made their way to Bethlehem. But they didn't journey in the comfort of a minivan. They travelled by foot and by donkey. How much more difficult that must have been.

Let's remember the difficulties Mary and Joseph had to endure as they prepared for Jesus' birth. We all have our own difficulties, but as we move closer to Christmas, let's remember that it is Jesus who can bring us peace. He said, "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." (John 14:27)

Prayer: Lord God, many of us have difficult journeys, but You are always with us. As we feel the stress of the holidays, help us to remember that You sent Jesus to bring us closer to You. In Him, we can find peace. Amen.

Heather Morton <morton@kent.net>
West Lorne, Ontario, Canada

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