The Carpenter God EntrustedSample

The Unwanted Journey

The road to Bethlehem was not a festive journey. It was a way through the mountains – way of weariness, anxiety and uncertainty. Mary was about to deliver any day now; Joseph had his heart full of care and responsibilities. They had no guarantees, only trust – God said, and so, they had to go.

Sometimes being obedient to God looks like journey, we do not want to take. We see no finish line, have no map, only walk in trust. So did Joseph – day after day, step by step, leading Mary, not knowing where they would stay, where they would find shelter or if they would find it at all. But it was at the end of this exhaustive journey that God gave birth to His hope.

God’s miracles often rise amid our weariness. Not when everything is comfortable, but when we simply do not give up. Christmas is not only the light of the Star, but also the dust on the path our faith walks along.

Maybe before starting the journey, Joseph once more went to his workshop, ran his hand over the wood, inhaled the familiar scent that reminded him of peace and tranquility. He had to take this peace with him on his upcoming journey. Maybe it was there that he thought, “I did not choose this journey, but God chose it for me.”

Quiet questions in the workshop:

• What “unwanted journey” am I on today?
• How do I respond when God takes me down a path that I do not comprehend or find difficult?
• What helps me keep going even when it seems I have no more strength left?

Prayer:

God, when the path seems to me long and exhaustive, please, remind me that You are with me. Help me trust You in every step I take and to believe that, even along the way, You are making life in me. Amen.