And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed.  Being of the line of David, Joseph was travelling with Mary, his pregnant wife-to-be, to his ancestral homeland of Bethlehem to be counted in Caesar’s census.  He was going to call off the engagement until an angel told him the Baby was fathered by the Holy Spirit.  That’s one persuasive angel.  The angel had to similarly convince Mary, who knowing her own purity, must have been terrified by her condition.  After fourteen generations, Joseph was one of many descendants of David so all of Bethlehem’s inns were full.  When they became the Holy Family, Mary and Joseph were lucky enough to find shelter in a stable for animals.  A humble feeding trough was the initial resting place for the Savoir to a third of humanity.

The greatest story ever told only gets better.  The faithful parents raised their special Child to reach His full potential. We don’t know what happened after they found the Boy teaching Scripture to the high priests, until He grew up and became a minister teaching about the perfect path to guide our feet into the way of peace. It all comes down to His simple rule to love our neighbors as ourselves.

Whatever you celebrate this holiday season, or if you’re just waiting for 2020 to finally end, may the God of Abraham share the peace and love of the Holy Family with your family during these holidays and all the days ahead.

Merry Christmas Everyone!