The journey is long and almost over. I feel her body shifting to ease the weariness and I hear her ask, "How much further, Joseph?". As he continues to lead me he answers, "Not much further, Mary. Do you need to rest?". Her soft, sweet, voice replies, "I'm fine."

Night is coming on and the air is beginning to cool. I like the coolness. The city is close now and I can see light and the murmuring of those who dwell within her walls. I have made this journey before.

Ah, we're here and Joseph is seeking a room for the night. Mary needs to rest for she is close to giving birth to her first born child. There is no room. I hear a man say to Joseph, "All I can offer is the stable." For me, it's welcome rest, but for Mary and Joseph it will have to do.

Joseph helps Mary off my back and guides her to a place to sit while he gathers hay to help make her comfortable. I munch on the hay and drink from the trough of water. I am comfortable and I kneel down to rest.

The peacefulness of the stable soon gives way to the cries of Mary as she lies on a bed of hay. She is grasping tightly to Joseph's arm. "It's time!", Mary cries and Joseph prepares for this child to enter this world. Soon, I hear the cry of the long awaited child.

I this humble stable surrounded by animals and multitude of stars in the sky, the hope of the world is born, Jesus Christ. His earthly journey is just beginning.