Tonight we enjoyed some festivities with Honey's family. What fun we had! We played basketball, floor hockey and card games. We feasted, and opened presents. We even enjoyed a white elephant gift exchange. And the kids loved the gifts they received from Grammies and Grandpa Livingstone.When we returned, as we were getting the kids ready for bed and waiting to say family prayers, I had a little time to reflect. I wonder how Mary felt in the little stable knowing that she would shortly give birth to the Son of God. Did she sleep? Probably not, maybe not so much from discomfort, but I suppose that she was wondering how she would ever raise this special Son. I wonder if she was visited and given some peace as she continued on her divine mission. Did she worry that her first child would be born in a dirty stable? She had traveled so far, did she worry about the long journey back to her home? I can only imagine she felt somewhat inadequate, not only because she was having her first child, but she was charged with raising the Son of God.
I wonder about Joseph, being a father for the first time. I'm sure he worried about the coming days, from birth to how he would raise the Son of God. What could he offer? What would his Father want him to do? I'm sure he felt the importance of the event and was even more frustrated that he couldn't arrange more comfortable accommodations.
What about our Father in Heaven. I'm sure His omniscience helped Him find comfort in the mission His Son was beginning. I wonder if He was even slightly worried knowing that His Son would eventually suffer and die at the hands of His other children, and that the Savior would have to do it alone.
I can't help but feel bad about the attention I've given this holy time, namely the lack thereof. What an amazing event, a miraculous time. What an honor to serve Him. Let us all remember Him, His mission, and His love. We love you and pray that His spirit fills your home.
Merry Christmas.
Ryan and Honey
3 comments:
We loved having you all here and can hardly wait to see you again in Feb(?)!!! Maybe you can stay with us next time...Hotel Henwood is always open!!! Love you all.
Ryan, what special thoughts. I loved reading your reflections. It is such a special time and often gets eclipsed by all the other activities. I wish we had done the Nativity on Sunday so it was first. I really appreciate your thoughtfulness. We love you all soooooo much. It is so much fun to be together. You are the best. We're so glad you are in our family. We can hardly wait to see you in Feb. Love Mom and Dad. Grammies and Grandpa.
Great thoughts Ryan. I am sure they had all those thoughts. I think the Lord must have prepared and filled them with peace. Remember what Mom says "Those who the Lord call He qualifies." Love you guys!
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