Mary & Joseph. Two people who had angelic visits and said yes to the messengers. Then, she bore Him and they lived with Him;  the Message – Jesus the Christ – the Good News.

As much as I’m in amazement at the scene in the stable…it’s the trip to Bethlehem that’s on my mind today.

Pre-black top and cement…how does one find a road in the desert? Doesn’t shifting sand cover up the camel tracks from caravans? Or were there landmarks that led them from turn to turn? This might work for me since I’m a bit directionally challenged. North and South mean little but turn left by the pile of stones near the well of whatever might get me there.

Did the couple talk about their dreams? The baby? The census? Did they wonder as they wandered about all they might face in the coming days? Did Mary wish for her mother’s presence as she knew the date of Jesus birth was so near? Did Joseph worry about providing for Mary and the baby when they reached Bethlehem? What sounds did they hear? Sights did they see? Did they travel alone or alone in the company of a caravan? Did the wind howl and the sun scorch? Did Mary ponder all she knew and wonder about all she didn’t? How does a first time mother raise the Son of God? Was the trip good for their marriage? Was the time away from the gossip a relief even if the days were long, dry, and hot? Then later, after another angelic visit, they were once again on the road this time headed for Egypt – running for the life of Jesus. These trips were only the beginning of life on the road for Jesus.

During Jesus time on earth, He walked all over with His disciples, walked to Calvary and out of the tomb, joined two followers on the road to Emmaus and later met Paul on the road to Damascus.

While none of my questions about Mary and Joseph can be answered, my personal ponderings keep me focused on the One who road in her womb. Immanuel. The true King of the road.