ON THE ROAD TO BETHLEHEM
2. The Journey.
It was rather long, about five days. It was hard, because the road is poor and the beast of burden is not of much help. It was unpleasant, for December has its biting cold and merciless winds, its rains and even snow. Try to accompany Our lady for a little while. See Her wrapped in a dark mantle; a veil over Her face. St. Joseph by Her side, does not take his eyes from Her and sees to it that the humble beast treads the best portion of the road. Imagine the sweetness of the face hidden under the veil; Her purity, modesty and recollection: all harmony and heavenly beauty; all sanctity.
Other travellers who can do the journey faster and more comfortably overtake and pass the little group. They go by criticising and cursing mighty Caesar's order but Mary proceeds rapt in ecstasy, all transfigured, thinking of the treasure She is carrying within Herself. On the road as well as at home the passing life around Her does not touch Her soul. She lives every moment with Jesus and for Jesus.
How beautiful Our Lady's prayer would be during that journey! See the angels vying with each other to have the honor of accompanying Her. You also should try to accompany your Mother during the stages of that journey. Would you not like to help Her to alight, to find Her shelter in the shade of some palm tree, to bring Her some water. Place yourself at Her service and even though you do all these services in a clumsy way, ask Her not to despise you but rather to take you into Her company. Refuse Her nothing, since She deserves everything.
[Excerpted from 'MARIAN MEDITATIONS' Book by Rev. Dr. Ildefonso R. Villar, Salesian Philippine Province, Nihil Obstat; Imprimatur]
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