Awaiting Baby Jesus

Rosemary Bogdan imagines what those last few days before the birth of Jesus might have been like. 

Bethlehem rejoices, as the hymn goes. Might it not be rejoicing already as we come so close to Jesus’ birth? All of creation is awaiting the arrival of the God-man. Surely there is a strange anticipation in the air. Everyone coming to Bethlehem was journeying because they were of the House of David.  

David’s Line and the Birth of the Savior 

Perhaps most of them knew that the Messiah would come from David’s line and that He would be born in Bethlehem. How many, inspired by the Holy Spirit, may have been thinking that of all the bustle in the city perhaps a pregnant woman would come to give birth to the Messiah at that very time?  

What a chaotic scene it must have been in Bethlehem. During this crazy time, Jesus would be born. Caesar Augustus, what were you thinking? All of David’s descendants coming to Bethlehem at the same time? And some of us think that today’s census efforts are burdensome. 

Did the innkeeper and his wife have an uncanny sense that the stable ought to have fresh hay and that this shelter for animals might need to be used soon? The lowly, freshly cleaned stable — did it feel peaceful already? 

How many people were already noticing the star of David, shining with a light so bright there were places, like the stable itself, that were as bright as day, even at night? 

The Long Trip to Bethlehem 

It has been estimated that the trip to Bethlehem from Nazareth was about 90 miles. It likely took between four days to a week to make that trip.  If they are to arrive on the 24th or 25th, they are well on their way now.  

Perhaps they are a few days away from the City of David, Bethlehem. Mary, big with child was no doubt quite uncomfortable as they traveled the rough terrain. Early labor may even have been starting. I wonder if Joseph is concerned at the number of people he is seeing on the way. Keenly aware of his responsibility as the protector of this very special family, he may have been asking God to please provide them with lodging. 

When they arrive at the stable it must have seemed so humble and ordinary for such a special Child to be born in. 

The Legend of the Tabby Cat 

There is a legend about the tabby cat and Jesus’ birth: There was a tabby kitten in the stable who jumped into the manger to curl up next to Baby Jesus and keep Him warm. Mary was so grateful to the little thing that she marked his forehead with her letter M. And all tabby cats since then have the mark of an M on their foreheads. Perhaps now, three days before Christmas, the little kittens are already running around. In three days, there will be a baby in that manger to keep warm. 

All of creation is waiting with eager longing and anticipation for the arrival of the Savior. May we share that longing as we prepare our hearts to celebrate with the Church the arrival of the Christ Child. 

Come, Lord Jesus. 

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Copyright 2025 Rosemary Bogdan
Images: Canva