Journey to Bethlehem
Oil on Panel for
Rejoice! Advent Meditations with Mary
Book and Video
By Ascension Press
With every birth of a new child, parents go through a uniquely powerful journey together. It’s a whirlwind of emotions, anxieties and hopes. As I imagined Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem, I could not help but wonder how their “Birth Journey” might have been like. I imagined Mary, trying to balance on the back of a donkey while Joseph leads them both through a harsh environment. In this painting, Mary relies on Joseph for support, both physically and emotionally. Joseph walks boldly and steadfast. Internally, however, he may be full of fears and anxieties of his own. Both of them showing their resilience, their trust in God, and the loving support they have for each other.
In this painting there are two, personally, favorite moments. The first one is Mary’s hand on Joseph’s shoulder. It’s such a sweet moment that brings the both of them together in a very loving way. The other moment is the blowing wind. The wind not only alludes to the harsh adversity of their experience, but it also hints to the presence of the Holy Spirit as they journey together.
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