Jesus' Mother Huddling in the Rain (First Christmas Story, continued)

Now, let’s see. Where did I leave off, last? How often will I have to post to get this done by Christmas? Okay, okay, I’ll step out of the picture so you can immerse yourself into the First Christmas Story.

21st Chisleu

December 6th

First light, if you can call it that, I heard a wind come up during the night, and by morning the clouds had blotted out the sun. The Geshem, (latter rains) descended upon us with a vengeance, we were miserable even before Balaam’s saddlebags

were properly repacked. Yosef and I donned our thick woolen cloaks,

but it was impossible for me to hang on to the donkey’s reins without

rain trickling up my sleeves. That was so uncomfortable.

We slogged along silently, going uphill most of the way, or so seemed. I noticed that our fellow travelers were not calling out to each other so exuberantly, anymore. The clouds still look thick and dark towards our destination, the hills.

The Christmas Story from Mary's Viewpoint (continued)

Today was cloudy and dark; a gloomy sort of day. Not even my

companions whom I regularly meet at the well were not in the mood

to linger and chat for long. I guess it is because there is a chill in the air.

The clouds are dark, and lowering. Quite likely by nightfall the early rains will have begun in earnest. It sure feels like a day for huddling in our mud brick homes as close as possible to the little fire in the brazier!

I wonder how my long-time friends will treat me once they can tell

that I am carrying a tinoki, little child. Will they give me the look that

so many reserve for aant’at, women, of ill repute? I shiver to think of it!

Is It Worth Dying For? (iii)

In this true story based on a happening in 1549, yes you read that right, Heidi is left to fend for herself when  her husband flees the city. In a rash moment he had spoken against the political and religious leaders of the day and that was not smart.Although she finds comfort with the people of God, it is very dangerous to be seen with them.

               Heidi went over to the one small window in the hut and peered out. It was dark, very dark out tonight. She opened the door softly and glanced back. Neither child stirred.

               Every step of the way Heidi was sure that someone was following her.