Advent: Reflecting on the Journey - Friday, December 6
So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.
Luke 2:4-7
In Luke 2:4-5, we see that Mary and Joseph needed to complete a journey to fulfill their obligations for the Roman census. Although only about eighty miles long, this journey would have been completed without the aid of modern transportation. They would have chosen the common “sandal and maybe a donkey” option. Not an easy feat for an expecting mother!
We, too, experience physical and spiritual challenges much like Mary and Joseph did along their path. The physical challenges look a little different up in Alaska than they would have in Nazareth or Bethlehem. The more remote the village, the more obstacles to overcome. Thankfully, in modern-day Alaska, there are many options for covering long distances such as bush planes, snow machines, ATVs, boats, cars, trains, snowshoes, dogsleds, and hiking boots- all dependent on the terrain and intended destination.
The spiritual obstacles we face can often seem more daunting than the physical ones. Many times we feel that we’ve strayed too far or have finally hit that one barrier that won’t move. At times like this, it’s important to remember that nothing is out of God’s ability and no one is beyond his reach. That baby born in Bethlehem is the one who equips us with the grace, forgiveness, and strength to get back on the path God designed for us.
As we travel through this Advent season, we can reflect on our journey: Are we on God’s path? Do we depend on Christ’s gift of redemption when we get stuck? Are we encouraging those around us to seek the Christ child? May God give us His strength and the wisdom to do each of these things every day.
Heavenly Father, Our paths are not always clear. We come to physical and spiritual hurdles that can stop us in our tracks and threaten to overwhelm us. Thank you that we do not have to travel this path alone. You promise to be with us and before us. Help us to seek you, depend on you, and follow you. Amen.