Gospel Grace The Nativity in a New Light B Y TAWA N A L O W E R Y
T
he life of Mary and Joseph and their epic journey to Bethlehem has always been a source of profound inspiration. Their transcendent story has captivated millions of hearts and minds for centuries. Yet, against the present-day backdrop of so much global unrest, reflecting on their struggle of that silent night offers even greater inspiration this year. So much about their moment in history has been romanticized through pictures, stories, carols, and the like. But to only focus on their life in that context trivializes the extreme difficulty endured by an unlikely couple trying to cope with 360-degree uncertainty while adjusting to the demands of a new marriage and a new life. Without warning, their simple existence was interrupted by complicated chaos and oppression. They had no idea how the future would unfold. There was no beautifully packaged Christmas story to read. No illuminated nativity scene to help make sense of their seemingly dark reality. The life they were hoping for was hijacked by circumstances they did not plan for. Nevertheless, they moved forward. They kept the faith and finished the race.
THOSE WHO CROSS THE FINISH LINE RECEIVE THE CROWN. 7
