Finding the Way

   Faith is not automatic and a guide is required to to help children find the right path. For this reason I developed and carried out a planned Advent Adventure each year with my family. The plan is adaptable and can grow with your family. For older teens and adults, I recommend the book Advent Journeys , which is full of adventures that will make your Bible Study come Alive!
   This week’s journal in the devotional Advent Journeys seeks to speak the words of Joseph along the road with Mary on their journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem. Have you ever wondered what the trip was like? What they ate, where they slept, who they met, and what conversations they had? This journal will answer your questions!
   Joseph and Mary were unique individuals of character. They truly loved God, and sought to carry this attitude into their daily lives. For this reason they were chosen by God to become parents of the Messiah!
   The Bible tells us that Mary and Joseph were not problem free. They had many concerns … take for instance Mary’s sudden pregnancy; how to tell her parents; and how to break the news to Joseph (who did nothing wrong!) Think about what the community said. And then there were the taxes to be paid, and the trip to be made by a very pregnant Mary.
   The couple endured, in a commendable way. Have you ever wondered what they talked about along the way? What was the road like (they crossed mountains and walked through valleys). Would you like to listen? Take the Advent Journey with them from Nazareth to Bethlehem (this week). You can also travel with them from Bethlehem to Egypt … and then back to Nazareth during week four of the Advent Journeys Devotion Guide. [this is an easy read, with about 350 words per day, that will take you to the heart of Christmas! Please try it, and for accountability, have a friend read the book also.]
   Joseph and Mary are still remembered, because God chose them. The Lord gave them to serve as examples for other parents across two thousand years of history. A close reading of the Bible, and also Advent Journeys can help you to know them better and copy something that will improve your life this year.