women

Today we had a family morning tea with two of my great-aunts.  My mum, my sister, my aunt and my cousin... and two great-aunts.  They are all strong women in so many ways.  Although we spent a good time herding children it was wonderful to be together.
Speaking of strong women, I am reminded of this one.

"But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart."  Luke 2:19

My great-aunt had the most beautiful Christmas displays.  I fell in love with this one.  A heavily pregnant Mary, seated on a donkey led by Joseph.  I called the shop she bought it from and naturally they are sold out.  My Christmas wish for next year...

Nicholas and Audrey were excited to see all the decorations and displays.

To finish, another favourite picture this season is from the book 'The Nativity' illustrated by Julie Vivas.  I love the angel holding the baby Jesus while Joseph helps Mary onto the donkey. 

Today's advent reading is Luke 2:15-20

And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.

And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.

And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child.

And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds.
But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.
And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them.