And he will be called Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting, Prince of Peace.

Isaiah 9:6b

The journey was long
They were unprepared
Nowhere to stay
No offer could be heard

The inns were full
Their doors tightly closed
Mary and Joseph
had nowhere to repose

Then at last
A place was offered
At the back of the inn
with the oxen and asses

Hardly a place
fit for a baby
But here, Jesus was born,
In the straw in a stable.

We reflect on the long and arduous journey made by Mary and Joseph …

God of love and compassion, thank you for your love in Jesus. You journey every day with us, in all our circumstances and situations. You understand and meet with us in our need. Help us to see your provision and love at work in our troubled world.

We pray for all who are homeless, for all who are displaced and facing long and dangerous journeys and for those who are victims of trafficking, may they find hope and peace and a place of welcome and safety to stay.

We pray for people whose personal journeys are fraught with fear, uncertainty or difficulty for health, financial, relational or any other reason. Wrap them in your loving arms that they may find hope, courage and the peace of Jesus in their circumstances.

Gracious God, as we journey with You, open our eyes and hearts to see and respond to the needs of our neighbour, in simple and small ways, with kindness, care and compassion. For Jesus sake. Amen

Ruth Rushworth