by RTF Staff Writer Sarah Rupp

Day 1

Traveling on a bumpy dirt road on a donkey. Really? A donkey? At least my new husband was thoughtful enough that I don’t have to walk. My back already hurts from the baby inside. I’m not sure which is worse, riding or walking. If I ride – wait – let me back up a little, explain why I’m traveling and most importantly, why I’m pregnant.

It started when I was doing my chores and a strange man came up to me. He told me he was an angel from the Lord and God wanted me to carry his son. This really confused me at first. God wanted me pregnant? I wasn’t even married! I was engaged to my husband Joseph at the time. In my culture, it’s a shameful thing to be pregnant when you’re not married. But I was raised to say yes when the Lord asks. So I did.

Then our land’s ruler had this plan to make everybody return to their hometowns to be counted. Yes, the ruler is a man. He obviously didn’t think of pregnant women like me. I tell you, someday they need to think up a better way to travel.

Day 3

Uggghhh… only day 3? I don’t want to complain, but it’s like we’ve been traveling forever! The baby is moving non-stop. I feel like I could explode any minute, and probably look like it too. I’m beginning to wonder if Joseph knows where he’s going, but I figure he knows the way to his hometown. It just seems like I’ve been seeing the same thing over and over again. Well, I guess it is sand.

Day 5

God, are we there yet? I wanted to ask Joseph for the last few days but know he’s tired too. I don’t want him thinking I’ve wondered if we’re lost and can’t figure out why he isn’t stopping for directions. Men.

Okay. Deep breath aaaannnnnd out.

God, forgive me. I shouldn’t complain. You’ve provided for us and will continue to provide. Your ways are better than ours. Joseph is a wonderful man. The more I get to know him, the more I can see him as a loving father to our child. Wait. Your child. Oh, God. How am I going to do this? I’m scared. I’m not ready to be a mother. Please give me strength.

Day 6

We made it! After I convinced Joseph to ask for directions, we’re finally here. But upon arrival, we found all the hotels were filled. Not even one room left. I guess that’s what we get for getting lost and arriving late. After Joseph negotiated with some hotel owners, we were finally given a place to rest – a hotel owner’s livestock barn that is. Not my choice resting area, but at least I can sleep.

Day 7

Last night I had the baby. Oh, God, it was wonderful. Yes, hard, but Joseph was so encouraging. I named him “Jesus” just like You said. He’s the most beautiful baby I’ve ever seen. With Your help, I’ll do my best to raise him. I can’t wait to see how you’ll use my – Your – son. What a great journey this has been and I can’t wait to see where you lead us next!

Based on a true story. You can read the real story in the Bible (Luke 1:26 to 2:20 and also Matthew 1:18 to 2:23)

Sarah Rupp is a freelance writer who loves God, reading, fashion, and music, as well as writing of course! You can find her over at her blog, Sarah’s Words of Witsdom, or her fashion and beauty blog, Mod Style Lounge. She enjoys connecting with readers and other writers though comments.