The Wired Word for 12292024 - CourtneyR.dev's 2nd Brain

The Wired Word for 12/29/2024 ![rw-book-cover](https://readwise-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/static/images/article4.6bc1851654a0.png) ## Metadata - Author: [[The Wired Word]] - Full Title: The Wired Word for 12/29/2024 - Category: #articles - Document Note: --- tags: - #HolidayTravel - #FaithJourney - #ChristmasStory - #DisplacedPersons - #Refugees - #Compassion - #TravelStress - #Scripture Author: Communication Resources Source: The Wired Word Reference: Page Numbers Not Provided date created: {{date:2024-12-28}} {{time:08:00}} --- # Title: Holiday Travel and Faith: A Reflection on the Christmas Story ## Table of Contents: - [📝 Summary](#summary) - [📖 Main Content](#main-content) - [🗒️ Notes](#notes) - [📖 References](#references) - [🗣️ Paraphrase](#paraphrase) - [📰 Newsletter](#newsletter) - [✅ Action Items](#action-items) - [🧪 Hypotheses](#hypotheses) - [📊 Methodology](#methodology) - [❓ Questions](#questions) - [🔮 Future Research](#future-research) - [💡 Implications](#implications) - [🧠 Learning Styles Assessment](#learning-styles-assessment) - [📊 Accessibility Assessment](#accessibility-assessment) - [🌍 DEIB (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging) Assessment](#deib-assessment) - [✅ Logical validity](#logical-validity) - [🔍 DARVO Analysis Prompt](#darvo-analysis-prompt) - [🔍 SEO Evaluation](#seo-evaluation) - [🎯 Conclusion](#conclusion) ### References: - The Wired Word, Communication Resources, 2024 ## 📝 Summary: This article reflects on the challenges and meaning of holiday travel, drawing a parallel to the holy family’s journey. It focuses on how we can bring compassion to displaced persons and refugees, while incorporating reflections on the Christmas story and our own faith journey. ## 📖 Main Content: The article begins by providing statistical data on holiday travel, expecting record-breaking numbers this year. It then shifts to a reflection on the Christmas story, urging readers to consider the difficult journey of Mary and Joseph in light of modern travel challenges. The piece emphasizes compassion for displaced persons, the importance of faith in difficult travel experiences, and how the Christmas narrative can offer comfort and inspiration during the holiday season. ### 🗒️ Notes: - **Holiday Travel Stats**: - 119.3 million Americans expected to travel during the holiday season. - Most travel will be by car, with delays expected around major metro areas. - Air travel is also on track to break records with 7.85 million expected passengers. - **Challenges of Modern Travel**: - Delays and long commutes will test patience. - Weather issues like snowstorms may complicate travel for millions. - **Christmas Story Reflection**: - The article draws a direct line between modern travel struggles and the holy family's journey, highlighting the stress, discomfort, and faith involved. - Each character in the Christmas story (Mary, Joseph, the shepherds) is used to reflect on different aspects of holiday travel and faith. - The metaphor of the holy family's flight to Egypt is used to connect with the modern-day refugee and displaced person experience. ## 📖 References: - Luke 2:7, 2:9, 2:19, Matthew 2:13 - Sources: Newsweek, Travelpulse, AccuWeather ## 🗣️ Paraphrase: 1. **Joseph’s Journey**: The Christmas story tells of Joseph, who faced challenges as he traveled with his pregnant wife. Despite difficulties, God used their journey to bring about something good: the birth of Jesus. This mirrors how our own struggles can lead to unexpected blessings. 2. **The Shepherds’ Role**: The shepherds stayed in the fields, and yet they were the first to hear of Jesus’ birth. Despite their circumstances, God met them where they were. This reminds us that God's presence isn't dependent on our location or status. ## 📰 Newsletter: This holiday season, as millions hit the roads, rails, and skies, it's important to reflect on the deeper meaning of travel. The stress of holiday travel can be a reminder of the challenges faced by the holy family. Whether it's the exhausting journey of Mary and Joseph or the shepherds who were met where they were, these stories show us how God can use our own travels to reveal greater truths. As you navigate this busy time, take a moment to reflect on your faith journey and consider how you can support those who are displaced or struggling. ## ✅ Action Items: - **Open Source Advocacy**: Ensure this article can be shared with community members, fostering empathy and inclusion during the holiday season. - **Contributor Engagement**: Use this opportunity to highlight how the open-source community can offer support to refugees and displaced persons through projects and volunteer efforts. - **Educational Outreach**: Develop a presentation or discussion session for churches or community groups to further explore the intersection of travel, compassion, and faith, linking it with the broader themes of inclusion in the open-source community. ## 🧪 Hypotheses: - **Hypothesis 1**: People who travel during the holiday season may experience a higher level of stress, but those who focus on the spiritual journey of travel (like Mary and Joseph’s story) might experience less frustration. - **Hypothesis 2**: Communities that foster compassion for displaced persons during the holiday season may be more likely to engage in volunteer or charitable activities throughout the year. ### 📊 Methodology: - **Data Collection**: Surveys or interviews with holiday travelers about their stress levels and coping strategies. - **Analysis**: Compare travel stress with spiritual reflections and volunteer engagement in communities during the season. ### ❓ Questions: 1. How can modern travelers use the challenges of holiday travel to reflect on the Christmas story? 2. What role does compassion play in the way we engage with displaced persons during the holidays? 3. How do church communities integrate modern-day refugee experiences with the Christmas narrative? ### 🔮 Future Research: - Investigating the psychological impact of stressful travel during the holidays and how reflections on faith can mitigate that stress. - Exploring how faith-based communities support displaced persons beyond the holiday season. ### 💡 Implications: Future studies could impact how travel companies or religious organizations design programs that connect travel experiences with faith, offering ways for people to reflect on compassion and support for those in need. ## 🧠 Learning Styles Assessment: - **Visual Learners**: The content is structured with clear headings and bullet points, which supports easy navigation for visual learners. - **Aural Learners**: The reflection-based nature of the content is suited for auditory learners who might benefit from discussions or podcasts on this topic. - **Verbal Learners**: The use of storytelling and questions encourages verbal reflection, perfect for verbal learners. - **Physical Learners**: No direct action items, but could benefit from creating travel-related service activities. - **Logical Learners**: The article provides statistical data, which could appeal to logical learners interested in travel patterns. - **Social Learners**: The discussion questions encourage group interaction, perfect for social learners. - **Solitary Learners**: The personal reflection aspect allows solitary learners to engage deeply. - **Naturalistic Learners**: The theme of travel and the natural world (winter weather) can connect with nature-based learners. ### 📊 Accessibility Assessment: - **Screen Reader Compatibility**: The content appears to be compatible with screen readers, with well-defined headings and sections. - **Keyboard Navigation**: The article’s structure allows for easy navigation via keyboard. - **Contrast and Readability**: The contrast is sufficient for readability, but larger text could improve accessibility for some users. ## 🌍 DEIB (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging) Assessment: - **Cultural Relevance**: The article connects the Christmas story to modern issues of displacement, showing cultural sensitivity and relevance. - **Inclusive Language**: The article uses inclusive language, especially when discussing displaced persons. - **Neurodiversity Support**: The article’s short paragraphs and structured format aid clarity for neurodiverse individuals. ## ✅ Logical validity: - The article makes logical connections between modern tra - Summary: When we travel over the holidays -- by car or plane or train or cruise ship -- do we stop to think about the way the holy family had a very different experience? Dear Class Members, When we travel over the holidays -- by car or plane or train or cruise ship -- do we stop to think about the way the holy family had a very different experience? How do we carry the trek of the holy family in our hearts and minds? They must have been exhausted, in pain, thirsty and hungry. What would it have been like to give birth among animals and wrap your newborn in bands of cloth? Given the challenges of their travel, this installment of *The Wired Word* will focus on the stress of travel today, compassion for displaced persons and refugees, and our own personal journey of faith. ![](https://www.thewiredword.com/_img/tww_logo_email.jpg) **Nearly 120 Million People Will Travel Over the Holidays*****The Wired Word*** **for the Week of December 29, 2024** **In the News** AAA Travel is predicting that 119.3 million people will travel at least 50 miles over the winter holiday period, which runs from December 21 to January 1. Compared to last year, AAA expects an additional three million travelers. The previous holiday record was set in 2019, and this year's numbers are expected to break that record by 64,000 travelers. "This is the time of year when lifelong memories are made with loved ones, and travel plays a big role in that," said Stacey Barber, vice president of AAA Travel. "This year, with Christmas Day falling on a Wednesday, we're anticipating record-breaking travel numbers the weekend before and the weekend after the holiday." So, how will people get to their destinations? Nearly 90% of holiday travelers will drive. This means that 107 million people are traveling by car, several million higher than last year but shy of 2019's record of 108 million. Experts expect that drivers will experience the worst traffic delays on the weekends before Christmas Day and New Year's Day. Across the country, travel times could be up to 30% longer, while delays could actually double for drivers in Boston, New York City, Seattle and Washington, D.C. "With a near record number of auto travelers expected this holiday season, drivers should expect delays in and around major metro areas," said Bob Pishue, a transportation analyst. He expected that Sunday, December 22, would be the nation's worst day to travel. "Our advice is to avoid traveling during peak commuting hours during the week. If schedules allow, leave bright and early or after the evening commute," he added. On the positive side, *Newsweek* reports that gas prices are lower in 2024 than in the past two holiday seasons. At the time of writing, the national average was $3.03 for a gallon of regular gas. A year ago, the national average was around $3.12. Air travel is expected to set a record this year with 7.85 million passengers. This number would beat the previous record of 7.5 million air travelers, which was set last year. Other modes of transportation are also expected to increase nearly 10% compared to last year, with 4.47 million people predicted to use buses, trains and cruise ships. For the cruise industry, domestic bookings are up 37% compared to the 2023 holiday season. Besides going home for the holidays, where are people headed? The top domestic holiday travel destinations are Orlando, Fort Lauderdale, Miami, Los Angeles/Anaheim, Tampa, Las Vegas, Honolulu, Charleston, New Orleans and New York City. For people heading overseas, the top destinations include Punta Cana, Mexicali, Cancun, Bahrain, Puerto Vallarta, San Jose, San Juan, Nassau, Oranjestad and London. In addition, weather was expected to be an issue for many travelers. AccuWeather predicted that more towns and cities across the United States were likely to experience a white Christmas in 2024, compared to 2023. For a Christmas to be considered "white," there must be at least one inch of snow on the ground on Christmas morning. Winter weather warnings were in place for 23 states on the weekend before Christmas, with forecasters warning that travel conditions could range from difficult to impossible. Residents in states including Idaho, Pennsylvania and New York, among others, were warned to exercise caution when traveling before Christmas amid icy conditions on the roads. Paul Pastelok, AccuWeather's lead long-range meteorologist, said, "The cold blast will feel like January and will deliver a significant shock to hundreds of millions of people who may have gotten used to warm conditions during much of the autumn." With the number of people on the road, AAA encouraged drivers to avoid the temptation to speed. Driving 80 miles per hour instead of 75 miles per hour only gives you five extra miles in a one-hour trip, which exchanges a high risk for a relatively small benefit. More on this story can be found at these links: [AAA Expects Record Winter Holiday Travel Period.](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPAbKYCByZRoXmovncuCzzUQm4MEQe0LXxk6rflXL4GGaYTsm2T15iVsw0tVGBDEDAyvEjTqiQCwqKtyqFvY73lnsCWXuOVuwte1dTzW5B3GXdM1GAff5ixqrhIERVo-2BKbA-3D-3DQBOQ_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmU88FF6Myq8io-2BqP8UqIdewJUnEPOJ-2F-2FJSJSSxgA0t8ydzUSbuXKljazPSz7JgxQID5Bi5Pd4Td2jr2JbAT8oEnXjhsuCXDtYkjOUp1nYoyFhEYEXKJeBsY-2FBqBIioSoM6wHDLsVtIcuD14doYrLkQ8RMV-2B9HAftzUVHAsV7nxyviQa1kko3BOGwJRPRThnTy-2FyBUTFWmSSzsLXEgyuTvAgHOnt-2Fp-2Bum8kJ-2B8-2FiNvbhjoa5QXc27qibqq3mV9GfHddb7LmXnvA6KqKhYaa4v41Y-3D) [*Travelpulse*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPAbKYCByZRoXmovncuCzzUQm4MEQe0LXxk6rflXL4GGaYTsm2T15iVsw0tVGBDEDAyvEjTqiQCwqKtyqFvY73lnsCWXuOVuwte1dTzW5B3GXdM1GAff5ixqrhIERVo-2BKbA-3D-3D8a4W_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmU88FF6Myq8io-2BqP8UqIdewJUnEPOJ-2F-2FJSJSSxgA0t8ydzUSbuXKljazPSz7JgxQIJrgZiSz28IQNPCcH0IZiBr3jXMYi2LbWuWyxeMXxI0CKTZb6tgH7c82wYTj61myM175UOi2hfFL7XlTk1GeegkqTJ9Df-2FESRjQb6jjKHmQzROFBd6C7r6T0xeIS4wTC-2F0mQ7sv-2Bonuz70ThELXUUrPWMM-2B2N-2B-2FZcg8Ze6QTK7U-2FkvFoVlz-2BWK-2BeWy7gpgIln10zZ3Ywhz2VKOBGrdAZJLs-3D) [AAA Says Millions to Travel for Christmas. Here's Everything to Know.](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPFQg2Unon4d9NQuApzHryUzPq86uE9Tk05H7k6OIe2Bjpa6E_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmU88FF6Myq8io-2BqP8UqIdewJUnEPOJ-2F-2FJSJSSxgA0t8ydzUSbuXKljazPSz7JgxQIBDA8f-2B4k0UiqticEMMZqE-2FkUPQsBYA-2F7pez1G40RL4sSJ9qzpx4fnvgzlyhtI4CBqUTmhRM5Eoev0nQ-2BcTsbs4gc2eLgKAA8QtzuWyGdb-2FzgUR7HEeDFFkCx7x-2Fgqw-2Fo4Mz2pPbeu0brG2vPYrdxLXjGFn1YE8StKl68Vnriu-2BQTOuvRD4tTmZXEtueyda9NYmkqARdQaFSuWQ67DRs-2FWE-3D) [*Newsweek*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPFQg2Unon4d9NQuApzHryUzPq86uE9Tk05H7k6OIe2Bjpdhk_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmU88FF6Myq8io-2BqP8UqIdewJUnEPOJ-2F-2FJSJSSxgA0t8ydzUSbuXKljazPSz7JgxQIPrMT7uroKyZ5qLtV66KrhH0ZQkfZ52uhGIgRfAIHPI1lWAyuJWUgV5MEq3b012d9cRiXwz-2B0jX-2F4EqDtgPkWVphX-2FiG03YFg6cV6jrCgsURlkOo0kdw-2Fh-2BVFGCkML-2BTRw-2FrHIltRoY1rm2kRiXfZZWKnJnq9Vjc9cYcsw-2FD06HiiNosOGO-2BGcqiKRftNbMd-2FEAfJfEyurTK03NIGuaWQMc-3D) **Applying the News Story** In most of our churches this season, we have heard the story of Mary and Joseph on the road to Bethlehem, and then the birth of Jesus and his placement in a manger. We have listened as the angels sang to shepherds who were not traveling, but were instead living in the fields. In the Epiphany season, we will also hear the story of the holy family's flight to Egypt to escape the threat of Herod. Consider how this story impacts your own experience of travel (or staying home), your compassion for displaced persons and refugees, and your own personal journey of faith. Enter these holiday travel stories from the perspectives of Joseph, the shepherds and Mary. **The Big Questions** 1. What has been your experience of holiday travel this year? Or your experience of staying home? 2. Describe your ideal holiday destination. Why is it so meaningful to you? 3. When have you had a challenging travel experience? How did it test your faith, if at all? What did you learn from it? If you have ever encountered a displaced person or refugee, what did you learn from them? 4. How does your community of faith make the Christmas story meaningful to you? Where does it connect to your life in a significant way? How could the church do a better job of this? 5. To whom do you relate most personally in the Christmas story: Joseph, Mary, the shepherds, the angels, the Magi or the parents of children killed in Bethlehem? Why do you feel this way? **Confronting the News With Scripture and Hope**Here are some Bible verses to guide your discussion: **Luke 2:7***And [Mary] gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in bands of cloth and laid him in a manger, because there was no place in the guest room.* (For context, read [Luke 2:1-7](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzx1qTBBln-2FabkjZMF09ic0uoZbnaruCr41U4ddSoWCuBZPKGrTUlchCTLkMUY1iKk1sQDd_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmU88FF6Myq8io-2BqP8UqIdewJUnEPOJ-2F-2FJSJSSxgA0t8ydzUSbuXKljazPSz7JgxQIKf-2FeUDzyBjNB3dvIWHFcPL85dqnf-2Fblihd7MKCOQwCWyVIJoMnmnUZvSP0zSLj3qKyCQyDV3YS4Qe7FNYzNCAk8xj1tHbe6LGJg4n-2BYOUAHVenXPHqnum1Jjr6gduovOdFHT8F3Kbq3LGiGeOAS3e-2BNsO6xEbEW2xjdejqCvIDhTVTpx9LsGSzSo88KIUWJO86YnmZplWW5ZxZwvwi-2FjI8-3D).) This portion of the Christmas story invites us to imagine ourselves to be Joseph. This can be a fun and worthwhile exercise, although our 21st-century perspective does not always align with that of the first century. Luke tells us that "a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. … [Joseph] went from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to the city of David called Bethlehem, because he was descended from the house and family of David." (vv. 1, 4). From the start, we know that Joseph was going to *his* family’s house. This time of year, tough choices have to be made about which side of the family to visit. In this case, they went to his side. Joseph "went to be registered with Mary, to whom he was engaged and who was expecting a child" (v. 5). They traveled about 90 miles, on rough roads over several days, a tough trip for a pregnant woman. You wouldn't blame Mary if she wondered, "Why couldn't we stay home with *my* family this year?" Then, when they arrived in Bethlehem, "the time came for her to deliver her child. And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in bands of cloth and laid him in a manger, because there was no place in the guest room" [some Bibles say "the inn"] (vv. 6-7). Joseph probably felt terrible that he had not made arrangements for lodging in Bethlehem. Staying in a stable, and putting a baby in a feeding trough, must have been embarrassing for him. TWW Team Member Henry Brinton remembers a time when he and his family were traveling to Maine for vacation. He neglected to make a reservation for a hotel along the way, so they ended up driving far from the interstate in order to find a place to stay. They ended up at a fishing lodge, and there was a sign in the bathroom that said, "Please do not clean your fish in the sink." That made a lifelong memory -- one that his family has never forgotten. So Joseph was probably embarrassed by the accommodations in Bethlehem. But God took that travel disaster and turned it into something good. Jesus entered the world, safe and warm and loved by his parents. He was born in the City of David, called Bethlehem, which set the stage for him to be the Son of David, a powerful leader who would teach the world the way of peace. God is always working to turn bad into good, in the life of Joseph and in our lives as well. > **Questions:** When have your travels taken you to undesirable places? How, if at all, did you discover that God was with you in the mess? When, if ever, has God used one of your failures to accomplish his purposes? How does God use imperfect trips to get you and your family to where you need to be? **Luke 2:9***Then an angel of the Lord stood before [the shepherds], and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.* (For context, read [Luke 2:8-14.](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzx1qTBBln-2FabkjZMF09ic0uu-2F74tE5aeVnCnPMi4tggfRUHHmHJLYoBA0l-2BoToeoC3emO5_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmU88FF6Myq8io-2BqP8UqIdewJUnEPOJ-2F-2FJSJSSxgA0t8ydzUSbuXKljazPSz7JgxQIMS56YajJALnMyy60yB2M6z1JOZYsrNN6ARrldmm-2B9qAzBvRkSeTLPQA-2FmQd4QGjoUipWhc8xu6-2BUw2tK72udeMUi1xMasVjE7MSsiWVph-2BPWCQKpwB3t7hGG-2B7TgRu8xd-2Bp3kNksVUPxUK8eXpeU3EnLRGereQcC8Ekjibr0v1ggFmThpi9RLit8RJy1d4Z8MumVUwkOg-2BRouJ34XFl1v8-3D).) Next, think of yourself as a shepherd. These were the people who were home for the holidays, "living in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night" (v. 8). They did not have the money to take off on the first-century equivalent of an airplane, bus, train or cruise ship -- instead, they stayed home and worked. Maybe some of you have done the same. But in spite of their being stuck in the fields, "an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them." The angel said to them, "Do not be afraid, for see, I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord" (vv. 10-11). The angel met them where they were -- in the fields. They were privileged to be the very first people to hear about the birth of Jesus. The good news might not have come to them if they were in Israel's version of Orlando or Cancun. The same is true for us: God meets us where we are. The good life is not always found in exotic travel destinations. Instead, real joy is found in the opportunities God gives us in our homes and workplaces and churches and schools. When the shepherds heard about the birth of Jesus, they jumped at the chance to "find a child wrapped in bands of cloth and lying in a manger" (v. 12). > **Questions:** When has God met you where you were -- in your home, workplace, church or school -- and given you an opportunity to do something great? How would you have missed this invitation if you had been distracted or traveling? Where does your church community give you opportunities to respond to God's invitations? **Luke 2:19 ...** *and Mary treasured all these words and pondered them in her heart.* (For context, read [Luke 2:15-20](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzx1qTBBln-2FabkjZMF09ic0up98LyRJv6bk7KfeueYNVhLbaofl94-2F-2FSaQNtH6hCUQ7ov0Z_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmU88FF6Myq8io-2BqP8UqIdewJUnEPOJ-2F-2FJSJSSxgA0t8ydzUSbuXKljazPSz7JgxQIOTHeZA-2Fku9Ypj8CW0nlFfVnTJeSgOT-2Bw9c12-2BR-2FQky8-2BhN967U4S1bcw2iEVHvQIcGxTwtsRtvFaUicQIlX625IojrsL0bL4X8c8Aa7rt0q0oVn1OII6wyeeIUPAa3oTrF1n50-2F4V-2FB5hPDZdXiD92-2FnMsWl86nuEkfmuEiUfvJr3XgS6D0-2BhmuTFBjltNugqvZWeiOcZjxmzGHSw5JgHc-3D).) Now, imagine yourself to be Mary. Luke tells us that the shepherds "went with haste and found Mary and Joseph and the child lying in the manger. When they saw this, they made known what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds told them" (vv. 16-18). Mary was no doubt exhausted by childbirth, and was working hard to care for a newborn child in a stable. But Luke tells us that "Mary treasured all these words and pondered them in her heart.” She had started this leg of her life's faith-journey when the angel Gabriel appeared to her in Nazareth, telling her that she would be the mother of Jesus (1:26-38). Then she gave birth and was visited by the shepherds. At this point, her faith journey continued as she treasured the words of the shepherds. That is our invitation as well: to treasure the words we are hearing and ponder them. We do not have to figure them all out, nor do we have to act on them right away. But we can let them work on us and prepare us for the journey that lies ahead. [The](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPAnBhsfKgqTVoC-2FP2pxf1JJXlK5ST-2BYzeofs8IjPsAmVspi5_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmU88FF6Myq8io-2BqP8UqIdewJUnEPOJ-2F-2FJSJSSxgA0t8ydzUSbuXKljazPSz7JgxQIGUUi4k6C-2B8JoB8oHoy9Rhs3SkMUPmf3E9htPhhfEVTmd5lyyBbTEM9N7jm7TzhJ6jkwxBTdo0nFSeoiXfI8JKcI-2FH-2Bm0XWBX7W9D6gaSS6-2BSzUd5RmT0svLGggA0YCRXqret0oarLwKF-2Fzq4xuYlIgltHKN-2FwA80R3rjEQV9O8Q5HhYsekE6fvIbz-2BF05busy9RYksO8JyNwxrC-2F6-2B8zBY-3D) [*New York Times*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPAnBhsfKgqTVoC-2FP2pxf1JJXlK5ST-2BYzeofs8IjPsAmVUTYz_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmU88FF6Myq8io-2BqP8UqIdewJUnEPOJ-2F-2FJSJSSxgA0t8ydzUSbuXKljazPSz7JgxQIDNQVZLCLxh9owBAu0vM277VS7S0HnavgLv5gZqB6ew1BL0XQXEEybCzNJT-2FdmXZMEgJykSNSG4sNG6Qj04-2F-2BBK2FKQsXJL990OiWoltSOaQ-2Bto-2B3suBPoghFUEczJJ7DeXwCiwCv4FMYR1TDJy8NoZIfAkL5daCJy-2FbRfGzjyRb8OZsgkyFbnO9pxaU-2BlvaWMZrLKJfJVmTASenvAakg5g-3D) [columnist David Brooks had an experience in 2013](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPAnBhsfKgqTVoC-2FP2pxf1JJXlK5ST-2BYzeofs8IjPsAmVxSfA_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmU88FF6Myq8io-2BqP8UqIdewJUnEPOJ-2F-2FJSJSSxgA0t8ydzUSbuXKljazPSz7JgxQIMBrm8GFyZwWCmVY1onItF-2BDpvtvS8dX42jEC9WDhosfK6xDeebxzmzPtKZ2n3vORGAlhzUQMeNJV8s4EtATJSzmE95PtvCKbNj5Th2jlQy-2FRKZhoRcxPb1iie1bhC-2FvxRni5tIo6J4qmwx3Xr2bPIsq1KGQQRYyobZsNd-2FHvc539rprCUmqYgt2cKGfclY0cD0TUcFkGqm5d3EuPuT1AsA-3D) that he has been pondering ever since. "I was in a crowded subway car underneath 33rd Street and Eighth Avenue in New York," he says. Truly, "one of the ugliest spots on this good green earth." But something amazing happened. "I looked around the car, and I had this shimmering awareness that all the people in it had souls. ... The souls around me that day seemed not inert but yearning -- some soaring, [some] downtrodden and crying out." Reflecting on this, Brooks says, "These thoughts helped me think more deeply about my job. I had approached journalism with the vague sense that the people we cover have a basic dignity. ... But seeing them as creatures with souls, as animals with a spark of the divine, helps me see people in all their majesty." For Mary, traveling to Bethlehem was like riding the subway underneath 33rd Street and Eighth Avenue. No fun at all. But there, she had the "shimmering awareness" that God had entered the world through Jesus. The spark of the divine was now visible in the manger in front of her. > **Questions:** When, if ever, has God given you an unexpected insight on your journey of faith? How have you pondered it, and how has it changed your view of life? Where do you see the spark of the divine -- in Jesus, in your church or somewhere else? **Matthew 2:13***Now after [the magi] had left, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, "Get up, take the child and his mother, and flee to Egypt, and remain there until I tell you, for Herod is about to search for the child, to destroy him."* (For context, read [Matthew 2:13-15](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxEE9arX6m0yHZZAbtNhYaDUuZKn4UrUIetyas832WMfx2LnMjg9XEvVnFQHjqpWGEHEUU_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmU88FF6Myq8io-2BqP8UqIdewJUnEPOJ-2F-2FJSJSSxgA0t8ydzUSbuXKljazPSz7JgxQINmN-2FRQIovEfsW3X7TXIhHdOMlKF4Hy84ApqStZ9NlQmShvZdmVxD7j0ywgpIq2cDmy0lRFYI5AgDpHJLVbjSDj3CiM490m2Du1WyitGssF7bUVMPhGsdyxaYtrYgmSxzNY1l6k-2BYZN2HWPrenN9dp9v8w-2BPWMPsNFVTlHpODQ2Wl6WCMThUsjZMcm3Ix9yAMtm-2FijPiWdxPDERxgyV05L8-3D).) Finally, imagine yourself to be part of the holy family, fleeing King Herod. After the Magi visit Jesus and give their "gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh" (v. 11), an angel of the Lord appears to Joseph and urges him to "flee to Egypt" to escape the violence of Herod. The family escapes by night, travels to Egypt, and stays there until the death of the king. Herod then "sent and killed all the children in and around Bethlehem who were two years old or under" (v. 16). TWW Team Member Heidi Mann sees a parallel between the holy family and "the millions of displaced persons and refugees at present, not necessarily traveling *for* the holidays but traveling *during* the holidays, not for pleasure but because they *must*. Their homes are war zones. Their countries have been overtaken by outsiders. They face starvation if they stay put." She wonders if we, in the United States, will show hospitality and make a "place in the guest room" (Luke 2:7). > **Questions:** When, if ever, has your church sponsored a refugee family? What was the experience like? What did you learn? How can you, as an individual, support a family -- either from the United States or abroad -- who is fleeing violence? How do you make decisions about the people or groups of people that you will support? **For Further Discussion** 1. TWW Team Member Mary Sells recounts that when she lived in Florida, she "met many refugees who fled terrorism, corruption, violence only to be sneered at by many as if their lives were less valuable." When, if ever, have you witnessed these attitudes in your community? How did you respond? How can the church do a better job of honoring people who are living examples of the holy family? 2. Joseph probably felt awful when his wife had to put their baby in a manger, but that was not the end of the story. [A](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPFrZS-2FMk0Ki32YbNNptrJk8zp-2FTIPcnOOPz21MjF1JlI5OWhZtlA-2FdB1l4Il7VL7JM5hDR0T-2BR7rPOJg5HHD0333I5j8OFRRHvUlW-2BGcdsR20EVZYEYk-2FYY3nPhPaTpqFQ-3D-3DsFIY_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmU88FF6Myq8io-2BqP8UqIdewJUnEPOJ-2F-2FJSJSSxgA0t8ydzUSbuXKljazPSz7JgxQIOvZDhkBQtE8Z76Oici-2FqcTEnJ-2Fc1P2Lq7tVvEHJULSK-2F1vSqX-2BHew-2BXiCZSqmRjVHhElfd2snxxKTTcLBbUYlrQyPm3Jd92eMSRsbwjwIwImSXs-2BndwnUun-2FPl9DlQ2lQj8qqeYliwF1A4McF4Ugz07Rq2qswI5GM4cUTvB-2B1KxKz21Cd2qQZUHRdTEJkAXnTuMQc-2BNAiDv7Ik7ZGYR3Mo-3D)[uthor L.R. Knost has said](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPFrZS-2FMk0Ki32YbNNptrJk8zp-2FTIPcnOOPz21MjF1JlI5OWhZtlA-2FdB1l4Il7VL7JM5hDR0T-2BR7rPOJg5HHD0333I5j8OFRRHvUlW-2BGcdsR20EVZYEYk-2FYY3nPhPaTpqFQ-3D-3DemgY_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmU88FF6Myq8io-2BqP8UqIdewJUnEPOJ-2F-2FJSJSSxgA0t8ydzUSbuXKljazPSz7JgxQIHTUjJemqJ5FrMiJ6-2BATtKtti05jy6Us4TFy8EvIV4aRMO4hVy2QcQk9v0KY1cPtGmuVqxIJC3B48sRkwn0tkaF0rcR8bXiWRHJFPWDdJmNULDUafGF1TxlivUtrZd7I4skJ-2Fdh5X-2BjUgrqHyjHMaWbU3RbVy4z4bJImx-2FfaRKHOnAqACrjDorOitvKxws28UgykWZuKFNPgVmJ8lwIjPbI-3D), "Life is amazing. And then it's awful. And then it's amazing again." Where have you seen God working to turn the awful into the amazing? Be specific. 2. TWW Team Member Frank Ramirez says that the takeaway of the Bethlehem story is that "we have to make room (or have room made for us) at the holiday times when the relatives come to town. We have unexpected company, we have to share the bathrooms, it's very inconvenient, but it's part of what makes things special -- or even more horrible than ever!" How are you making room (or having room made for you) this holiday season? How do you connect this to your faith? 4. The holy family needed assistance when they arrived in Bethlehem, and someone gave them the use of a manger. What practical help does your church offer families in difficult transitions? How have you been involved, if at all? What more could you do? How would such service be a form of service to Jesus Christ? **Responding to the News** Make your holiday travels a part of your faith journey. Like Joseph, see that God is always working to turn the bad into good. Like the shepherds, accept whatever opportunity God is putting before you. And like Mary, see the bright spark of the divine in Jesus, and continue to ponder this story in your heart. **Prayer** Help us, O God, to make room for people in need, during this holiday season and throughout the year. May all of our travels bring us closer to you, and to your Son Jesus, the baby of Bethlehem. Amen. **Copyright 2024 Communication Resources** [Unsubscribe From This List](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/asm/unsubscribe/?user_id=14323725&data=v0SL3EF1Y_YED6hR1AApe8hYWWNXifPcgYzr3Ns0QDFoMDAwdTAwMG0qUxHBwkeArfWpGZOtHQKL-l_s-KhztKBB3uk7HKrznEc4-1gKlxvhk7RidOwI5SsIQ8HvcU5nkBc1YvIE2uTK3gvME0ojFfAj4JY031okUvyUt-axZyR-dNSOuUA9XvlEqU_8R3PX9LcF7TAN8z-MapDUvPXOTMPT_8yrSXIzDI9_yBrALdI2Q5cvJoy9IKZs7gKu2fBXr4OJFE9XwDFTLP0rct2_zFa9Xx5HqEMbNCtREHhv9wikkij9AElsd02RxfZAVVOtcddzVz5AY2keP2SB6HWuk7UaMc6ASNkwMNb1cTpYwIx94pt2Kldd2gFTOD7pYq-eWPS08Me18VCStvUPbzeZmTjjmH4MuCOj6DmlBaTLEMcmxH2-DmvMv1eG2--MqPS_mfaqOIIjje3Uza7MviTLDrHKAz73MAkAZghjGOZWRjNr8wTdZk_QCDK-W83NlyGXVb37L6aQeCzaeSFNSDXFXCrTbFd-zRgCS3QRdf1opGcF4dLdXzJOwdGuEe2-d8hOmi-uwnWhjafHatC6Jy57WhHW5xYZAPU_zmmxzO-HVAN-cjfcJ1-9Ym4VuxwUwIP4xwba6Qi_gxo=) <div>Dear Class Members, When we travel over the holidays -- by car or plane or train or cruise ship -- do we stop to think about the way the holy family had a very different experience? How do we carry the trek of the holy family in our hearts and minds? They must have been exhausted, in pain, thirsty and hungry. What would it have been like to give birth among animals and wrap your newborn in bands of cloth? Given the challenges of their travel, this installment of The Wired Word will focus on the stress of travel today, compassion for displaced persons and refugees, and our own personal journey of faith. <center><img src="https://www.thewiredword.com/\_img/tww\_logo\_email.jpg"/></center> Nearly 120 Million People Will Travel Over the Holidays The Wired Word for the Week of December 29, 2024 In the News <div style="mso-element: para-border-div; border: none; border-bottom: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-bottom-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in 0in 12.0pt 0in; background: white;"> AAA Travel is predicting that 119.3 million people will travel at least 50 miles over the winter holiday period, which runs from December 21 to January 1. Compared to last year, AAA expects an additional three million travelers. The previous holiday record was set in 2019, and this year's numbers are expected to break that record by 64,000 travelers. "This is the time of year when lifelong memories are made with loved ones, and travel plays a big role in that," said Stacey Barber, vice president of AAA Travel. "This year, with Christmas Day falling on a Wednesday, we're anticipating record-breaking travel numbers the weekend before and the weekend after the holiday." So, how will people get to their destinations? Nearly 90% of holiday travelers will drive. This means that 107 million people are traveling by car, several million higher than last year but shy of 2019's record of 108 million. Experts expect that drivers will experience the worst traffic delays on the weekends before Christmas Day and New Year's Day. Across the country, travel times could be up to 30% longer, while delays could actually double for drivers in Boston, New York City, Seattle and Washington, D.C. "With a near record number of auto travelers expected this holiday season, drivers should expect delays in and around major metro areas," said Bob Pishue, a transportation analyst. He expected that Sunday, December 22, would be the nation's worst day to travel. "Our advice is to avoid traveling during peak commuting hours during the week. If schedules allow, leave bright and early or after the evening commute," he added. On the positive side, Newsweek reports that gas prices are lower in 2024 than in the past two holiday seasons. At the time of writing, the national average was $3.03 for a gallon of regular gas. A year ago, the national average was around $3.12. Air travel is expected to set a record this year with 7.85 million passengers. This number would beat the previous record of 7.5 million air travelers, which was set last year. Other modes of transportation are also expected to increase nearly 10% compared to last year, with 4.47 million people predicted to use buses, trains and cruise ships. For the cruise industry, domestic bookings are up 37% compared to the 2023 holiday season. Besides going home for the holidays, where are people headed? The top domestic holiday travel destinations are Orlando, Fort Lauderdale, Miami, Los Angeles/Anaheim, Tampa, Las Vegas, Honolulu, Charleston, New Orleans and New York City. For people heading overseas, the top destinations include Punta Cana, Mexicali, Cancun, Bahrain, Puerto Vallarta, San Jose, San Juan, Nassau, Oranjestad and London. In addition, weather was expected to be an issue for many travelers. AccuWeather predicted that more towns and cities across the United States were likely to experience a white Christmas in 2024, compared to 2023. For a Christmas to be considered "white," there must be at least one inch of snow on the ground on Christmas morning. Winter weather warnings were in place for 23 states on the weekend before Christmas, with forecasters warning that travel conditions could range from difficult to impossible. Residents in states including Idaho, Pennsylvania and New York, among others, were warned to exercise caution when traveling before Christmas amid icy conditions on the roads. Paul Pastelok, AccuWeather's lead long-range meteorologist, said, "The cold blast will feel like January and will deliver a significant shock to hundreds of millions of people who may have gotten used to warm conditions during much of the autumn." With the number of people on the road, AAA encouraged drivers to avoid the temptation to speed. Driving 80 miles per hour instead of 75 miles per hour only gives you five extra miles in a one-hour trip, which exchanges a high risk for a relatively small benefit. More on this story can be found at these links: <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPAbKYCByZRoXmovncuCzzUQm4MEQe0LXxk6rflXL4GGaYTsm2T15iVsw0tVGBDEDAyvEjTqiQCwqKtyqFvY73lnsCWXuOVuwte1dTzW5B3GXdM1GAff5ixqrhIERVo-2BKbA-3D-3DQBOQ\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmU88FF6Myq8io-2BqP8UqIdewJUnEPOJ-2F-2FJSJSSxgA0t8ydzUSbuXKljazPSz7JgxQID5Bi5Pd4Td2jr2JbAT8oEnXjhsuCXDtYkjOUp1nYoyFhEYEXKJeBsY-2FBqBIioSoM6wHDLsVtIcuD14doYrLkQ8RMV-2B9HAftzUVHAsV7nxyviQa1kko3BOGwJRPRThnTy-2FyBUTFWmSSzsLXEgyuTvAgHOnt-2Fp-2Bum8kJ-2B8-2FiNvbhjoa5QXc27qibqq3mV9GfHddb7LmXnvA6KqKhYaa4v41Y-3D">AAA Expects Record Winter Holiday Travel Period. </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPAbKYCByZRoXmovncuCzzUQm4MEQe0LXxk6rflXL4GGaYTsm2T15iVsw0tVGBDEDAyvEjTqiQCwqKtyqFvY73lnsCWXuOVuwte1dTzW5B3GXdM1GAff5ixqrhIERVo-2BKbA-3D-3D8a4W\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmU88FF6Myq8io-2BqP8UqIdewJUnEPOJ-2F-2FJSJSSxgA0t8ydzUSbuXKljazPSz7JgxQIJrgZiSz28IQNPCcH0IZiBr3jXMYi2LbWuWyxeMXxI0CKTZb6tgH7c82wYTj61myM175UOi2hfFL7XlTk1GeegkqTJ9Df-2FESRjQb6jjKHmQzROFBd6C7r6T0xeIS4wTC-2F0mQ7sv-2Bonuz70ThELXUUrPWMM-2B2N-2B-2FZcg8Ze6QTK7U-2FkvFoVlz-2BWK-2BeWy7gpgIln10zZ3Ywhz2VKOBGrdAZJLs-3D">Travelpulse</a> <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPFQg2Unon4d9NQuApzHryUzPq86uE9Tk05H7k6OIe2Bjpa6E\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmU88FF6Myq8io-2BqP8UqIdewJUnEPOJ-2F-2FJSJSSxgA0t8ydzUSbuXKljazPSz7JgxQIBDA8f-2B4k0UiqticEMMZqE-2FkUPQsBYA-2F7pez1G40RL4sSJ9qzpx4fnvgzlyhtI4CBqUTmhRM5Eoev0nQ-2BcTsbs4gc2eLgKAA8QtzuWyGdb-2FzgUR7HEeDFFkCx7x-2Fgqw-2Fo4Mz2pPbeu0brG2vPYrdxLXjGFn1YE8StKl68Vnriu-2BQTOuvRD4tTmZXEtueyda9NYmkqARdQaFSuWQ67DRs-2FWE-3D">AAA Says Millions to Travel for Christmas. Here's Everything to Know. </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPFQg2Unon4d9NQuApzHryUzPq86uE9Tk05H7k6OIe2Bjpdhk\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmU88FF6Myq8io-2BqP8UqIdewJUnEPOJ-2F-2FJSJSSxgA0t8ydzUSbuXKljazPSz7JgxQIPrMT7uroKyZ5qLtV66KrhH0ZQkfZ52uhGIgRfAIHPI1lWAyuJWUgV5MEq3b012d9cRiXwz-2B0jX-2F4EqDtgPkWVphX-2FiG03YFg6cV6jrCgsURlkOo0kdw-2Fh-2BVFGCkML-2BTRw-2FrHIltRoY1rm2kRiXfZZWKnJnq9Vjc9cYcsw-2FD06HiiNosOGO-2BGcqiKRftNbMd-2FEAfJfEyurTK03NIGuaWQMc-3D">Newsweek</a> </div> Applying the News Story In most of our churches this season, we have heard the story of Mary and Joseph on the road to Bethlehem, and then the birth of Jesus and his placement in a manger. We have listened as the angels sang to shepherds who were not traveling, but were instead living in the fields. In the Epiphany season, we will also hear the story of the holy family's flight to Egypt to escape the threat of Herod. Consider how this story impacts your own experience of travel (or staying home), your compassion for displaced persons and refugees, and your own personal journey of faith. Enter these holiday travel stories from the perspectives of Joseph, the shepherds and Mary. The Big Questions 1. What has been your experience of holiday travel this year? Or your experience of staying home? 2. Describe your ideal holiday destination. Why is it so meaningful to you? 3. When have you had a challenging travel experience? How did it test your faith, if at all? What did you learn from it? If you have ever encountered a displaced person or refugee, what did you learn from them? 4. How does your community of faith make the Christmas story meaningful to you? Where does it connect to your life in a significant way? How could the church do a better job of this? 5. To whom do you relate most personally in the Christmas story: Joseph, Mary, the shepherds, the angels, the Magi or the parents of children killed in Bethlehem? Why do you feel this way? Confronting the News With Scripture and Hope Here are some Bible verses to guide your discussion: Luke 2:7 And [Mary] gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in bands of cloth and laid him in a manger, because there was no place in the guest room. (For context, read <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzx1qTBBln-2FabkjZMF09ic0uoZbnaruCr41U4ddSoWCuBZPKGrTUlchCTLkMUY1iKk1sQDd\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmU88FF6Myq8io-2BqP8UqIdewJUnEPOJ-2F-2FJSJSSxgA0t8ydzUSbuXKljazPSz7JgxQIKf-2FeUDzyBjNB3dvIWHFcPL85dqnf-2Fblihd7MKCOQwCWyVIJoMnmnUZvSP0zSLj3qKyCQyDV3YS4Qe7FNYzNCAk8xj1tHbe6LGJg4n-2BYOUAHVenXPHqnum1Jjr6gduovOdFHT8F3Kbq3LGiGeOAS3e-2BNsO6xEbEW2xjdejqCvIDhTVTpx9LsGSzSo88KIUWJO86YnmZplWW5ZxZwvwi-2FjI8-3D">Luke 2:1-7</a>.) This portion of the Christmas story invites us to imagine ourselves to be Joseph. This can be a fun and worthwhile exercise, although our 21st-century perspective does not always align with that of the first century. Luke tells us that "a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. … [Joseph] went from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to the city of David called Bethlehem, because he was descended from the house and family of David." (vv. 1, 4). From the start, we know that Joseph was going to his family’s house. This time of year, tough choices have to be made about which side of the family to visit. In this case, they went to his side. Joseph "went to be registered with Mary, to whom he was engaged and who was expecting a child" (v. 5). They traveled about 90 miles, on rough roads over several days, a tough trip for a pregnant woman. You wouldn't blame Mary if she wondered, "Why couldn't we stay home with my family this year?" Then, when they arrived in Bethlehem, "the time came for her to deliver her child. And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in bands of cloth and laid him in a manger, because there was no place in the guest room" [some Bibles say "the inn"] (vv. 6-7). Joseph probably felt terrible that he had not made arrangements for lodging in Bethlehem. Staying in a stable, and putting a baby in a feeding trough, must have been embarrassing for him. TWW Team Member Henry Brinton remembers a time when he and his family were traveling to Maine for vacation. He neglected to make a reservation for a hotel along the way, so they ended up driving far from the interstate in order to find a place to stay. They ended up at a fishing lodge, and there was a sign in the bathroom that said, "Please do not clean your fish in the sink." That made a lifelong memory -- one that his family has never forgotten. So Joseph was probably embarrassed by the accommodations in Bethlehem. But God took that travel disaster and turned it into something good. Jesus entered the world, safe and warm and loved by his parents. He was born in the City of David, called Bethlehem, which set the stage for him to be the Son of David, a powerful leader who would teach the world the way of peace. God is always working to turn bad into good, in the life of Joseph and in our lives as well. <blockquote> Questions: When have your travels taken you to undesirable places? How, if at all, did you discover that God was with you in the mess? When, if ever, has God used one of your failures to accomplish his purposes? How does God use imperfect trips to get you and your family to where you need to be? </blockquote> Luke 2:9 Then an angel of the Lord stood before [the shepherds], and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. (For context, read <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzx1qTBBln-2FabkjZMF09ic0uu-2F74tE5aeVnCnPMi4tggfRUHHmHJLYoBA0l-2BoToeoC3emO5\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmU88FF6Myq8io-2BqP8UqIdewJUnEPOJ-2F-2FJSJSSxgA0t8ydzUSbuXKljazPSz7JgxQIMS56YajJALnMyy60yB2M6z1JOZYsrNN6ARrldmm-2B9qAzBvRkSeTLPQA-2FmQd4QGjoUipWhc8xu6-2BUw2tK72udeMUi1xMasVjE7MSsiWVph-2BPWCQKpwB3t7hGG-2B7TgRu8xd-2Bp3kNksVUPxUK8eXpeU3EnLRGereQcC8Ekjibr0v1ggFmThpi9RLit8RJy1d4Z8MumVUwkOg-2BRouJ34XFl1v8-3D">Luke 2:8-14.</a>.) Next, think of yourself as a shepherd. These were the people who were home for the holidays, "living in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night" (v. 8). They did not have the money to take off on the first-century equivalent of an airplane, bus, train or cruise ship -- instead, they stayed home and worked. Maybe some of you have done the same. But in spite of their being stuck in the fields, "an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them." The angel said to them, "Do not be afraid, for see, I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord" (vv. 10-11). The angel met them where they were -- in the fields. They were privileged to be the very first people to hear about the birth of Jesus. The good news might not have come to them if they were in Israel's version of Orlando or Cancun. The same is true for us: God meets us where we are. The good life is not always found in exotic travel destinations. Instead, real joy is found in the opportunities God gives us in our homes and workplaces and churches and schools. When the shepherds heard about the birth of Jesus, they jumped at the chance to "find a child wrapped in bands of cloth and lying in a manger" (v. 12). <blockquote> Questions: When has God met you where you were -- in your home, workplace, church or school -- and given you an opportunity to do something great? How would you have missed this invitation if you had been distracted or traveling? Where does your church community give you opportunities to respond to God's invitations? </blockquote> Luke 2:19 ... and Mary treasured all these words and pondered them in her heart. (For context, read <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzx1qTBBln-2FabkjZMF09ic0up98LyRJv6bk7KfeueYNVhLbaofl94-2F-2FSaQNtH6hCUQ7ov0Z\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmU88FF6Myq8io-2BqP8UqIdewJUnEPOJ-2F-2FJSJSSxgA0t8ydzUSbuXKljazPSz7JgxQIOTHeZA-2Fku9Ypj8CW0nlFfVnTJeSgOT-2Bw9c12-2BR-2FQky8-2BhN967U4S1bcw2iEVHvQIcGxTwtsRtvFaUicQIlX625IojrsL0bL4X8c8Aa7rt0q0oVn1OII6wyeeIUPAa3oTrF1n50-2F4V-2FB5hPDZdXiD92-2FnMsWl86nuEkfmuEiUfvJr3XgS6D0-2BhmuTFBjltNugqvZWeiOcZjxmzGHSw5JgHc-3D">Luke 2:15-20</a>.) Now, imagine yourself to be Mary. Luke tells us that the shepherds "went with haste and found Mary and Joseph and the child lying in the manger. When they saw this, they made known what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds told them" (vv. 16-18). Mary was no doubt exhausted by childbirth, and was working hard to care for a newborn child in a stable. But Luke tells us that "Mary treasured all these words and pondered them in her heart.” She had started this leg of her life's faith-journey when the angel Gabriel appeared to her in Nazareth, telling her that she would be the mother of Jesus (1:26-38). Then she gave birth and was visited by the shepherds. At this point, her faith journey continued as she treasured the words of the shepherds. That is our invitation as well: to treasure the words we are hearing and ponder them. We do not have to figure them all out, nor do we have to act on them right away. But we can let them work on us and prepare us for the journey that lies ahead. <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPAnBhsfKgqTVoC-2FP2pxf1JJXlK5ST-2BYzeofs8IjPsAmVspi5\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmU88FF6Myq8io-2BqP8UqIdewJUnEPOJ-2F-2FJSJSSxgA0t8ydzUSbuXKljazPSz7JgxQIGUUi4k6C-2B8JoB8oHoy9Rhs3SkMUPmf3E9htPhhfEVTmd5lyyBbTEM9N7jm7TzhJ6jkwxBTdo0nFSeoiXfI8JKcI-2FH-2Bm0XWBX7W9D6gaSS6-2BSzUd5RmT0svLGggA0YCRXqret0oarLwKF-2Fzq4xuYlIgltHKN-2FwA80R3rjEQV9O8Q5HhYsekE6fvIbz-2BF05busy9RYksO8JyNwxrC-2F6-2B8zBY-3D">The </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPAnBhsfKgqTVoC-2FP2pxf1JJXlK5ST-2BYzeofs8IjPsAmVUTYz\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmU88FF6Myq8io-2BqP8UqIdewJUnEPOJ-2F-2FJSJSSxgA0t8ydzUSbuXKljazPSz7JgxQIDNQVZLCLxh9owBAu0vM277VS7S0HnavgLv5gZqB6ew1BL0XQXEEybCzNJT-2FdmXZMEgJykSNSG4sNG6Qj04-2F-2BBK2FKQsXJL990OiWoltSOaQ-2Bto-2B3suBPoghFUEczJJ7DeXwCiwCv4FMYR1TDJy8NoZIfAkL5daCJy-2FbRfGzjyRb8OZsgkyFbnO9pxaU-2BlvaWMZrLKJfJVmTASenvAakg5g-3D">New York Times</a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPAnBhsfKgqTVoC-2FP2pxf1JJXlK5ST-2BYzeofs8IjPsAmVxSfA\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmU88FF6Myq8io-2BqP8UqIdewJUnEPOJ-2F-2FJSJSSxgA0t8ydzUSbuXKljazPSz7JgxQIMBrm8GFyZwWCmVY1onItF-2BDpvtvS8dX42jEC9WDhosfK6xDeebxzmzPtKZ2n3vORGAlhzUQMeNJV8s4EtATJSzmE95PtvCKbNj5Th2jlQy-2FRKZhoRcxPb1iie1bhC-2FvxRni5tIo6J4qmwx3Xr2bPIsq1KGQQRYyobZsNd-2FHvc539rprCUmqYgt2cKGfclY0cD0TUcFkGqm5d3EuPuT1AsA-3D"> columnist David Brooks had an experience in 2013</a> that he has been pondering ever since. "I was in a crowded subway car underneath 33rd Street and Eighth Avenue in New York," he says. Truly, "one of the ugliest spots on this good green earth." But something amazing happened. "I looked around the car, and I had this shimmering awareness that all the people in it had souls. ... The souls around me that day seemed not inert but yearning -- some soaring, [some] downtrodden and crying out." Reflecting on this, Brooks says, "These thoughts helped me think more deeply about my job. I had approached journalism with the vague sense that the people we cover have a basic dignity. ... But seeing them as creatures with souls, as animals with a spark of the divine, helps me see people in all their majesty." For Mary, traveling to Bethlehem was like riding the subway underneath 33rd Street and Eighth Avenue. No fun at all. But there, she had the "shimmering awareness" that God had entered the world through Jesus. The spark of the divine was now visible in the manger in front of her. <blockquote> Questions: When, if ever, has God given you an unexpected insight on your journey of faith? How have you pondered it, and how has it changed your view of life? Where do you see the spark of the divine -- in Jesus, in your church or somewhere else? </blockquote> Matthew 2:13 Now after [the magi] had left, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, "Get up, take the child and his mother, and flee to Egypt, and remain there until I tell you, for Herod is about to search for the child, to destroy him." (For context, read <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxEE9arX6m0yHZZAbtNhYaDUuZKn4UrUIetyas832WMfx2LnMjg9XEvVnFQHjqpWGEHEUU\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmU88FF6Myq8io-2BqP8UqIdewJUnEPOJ-2F-2FJSJSSxgA0t8ydzUSbuXKljazPSz7JgxQINmN-2FRQIovEfsW3X7TXIhHdOMlKF4Hy84ApqStZ9NlQmShvZdmVxD7j0ywgpIq2cDmy0lRFYI5AgDpHJLVbjSDj3CiM490m2Du1WyitGssF7bUVMPhGsdyxaYtrYgmSxzNY1l6k-2BYZN2HWPrenN9dp9v8w-2BPWMPsNFVTlHpODQ2Wl6WCMThUsjZMcm3Ix9yAMtm-2FijPiWdxPDERxgyV05L8-3D">Matthew 2:13-15</a>.) Finally, imagine yourself to be part of the holy family, fleeing King Herod. After the Magi visit Jesus and give their "gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh" (v. 11), an angel of the Lord appears to Joseph and urges him to "flee to Egypt" to escape the violence of Herod. The family escapes by night, travels to Egypt, and stays there until the death of the king. Herod then "sent and killed all the children in and around Bethlehem who were two years old or under" (v. 16). <div style="mso-element: para-border-div; border: none; border-top: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 6.0pt 0in 0in 0in; background: white;"> TWW Team Member Heidi Mann sees a parallel between the holy family and "the millions of displaced persons and refugees at present, not necessarily traveling for the holidays but traveling during the holidays, not for pleasure but because they must. Their homes are war zones. Their countries have been overtaken by outsiders. They face starvation if they stay put." She wonders if we, in the United States, will show hospitality and make a "place in the guest room" (Luke 2:7). </div> <blockquote> Questions: When, if ever, has your church sponsored a refugee family? What was the experience like? What did you learn? How can you, as an individual, support a family -- either from the United States or abroad -- who is fleeing violence? How do you make decisions about the people or groups of people that you will support? </blockquote> For Further Discussion 1. TWW Team Member Mary Sells recounts that when she lived in Florida, she "met many refugees who fled terrorism, corruption, violence only to be sneered at by many as if their lives were less valuable." When, if ever, have you witnessed these attitudes in your community? How did you respond? How can the church do a better job of honoring people who are living examples of the holy family? <div style="mso-element: para-border-div; border: none; border-top: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 6.0pt 0in 0in 0in; background: white;"> 2. Joseph probably felt awful when his wife had to put their baby in a manger, but that was not the end of the story. <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPFrZS-2FMk0Ki32YbNNptrJk8zp-2FTIPcnOOPz21MjF1JlI5OWhZtlA-2FdB1l4Il7VL7JM5hDR0T-2BR7rPOJg5HHD0333I5j8OFRRHvUlW-2BGcdsR20EVZYEYk-2FYY3nPhPaTpqFQ-3D-3DsFIY\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmU88FF6Myq8io-2BqP8UqIdewJUnEPOJ-2F-2FJSJSSxgA0t8ydzUSbuXKljazPSz7JgxQIOvZDhkBQtE8Z76Oici-2FqcTEnJ-2Fc1P2Lq7tVvEHJULSK-2F1vSqX-2BHew-2BXiCZSqmRjVHhElfd2snxxKTTcLBbUYlrQyPm3Jd92eMSRsbwjwIwImSXs-2BndwnUun-2FPl9DlQ2lQj8qqeYliwF1A4McF4Ugz07Rq2qswI5GM4cUTvB-2B1KxKz21Cd2qQZUHRdTEJkAXnTuMQc-2BNAiDv7Ik7ZGYR3Mo-3D">A</a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPFrZS-2FMk0Ki32YbNNptrJk8zp-2FTIPcnOOPz21MjF1JlI5OWhZtlA-2FdB1l4Il7VL7JM5hDR0T-2BR7rPOJg5HHD0333I5j8OFRRHvUlW-2BGcdsR20EVZYEYk-2FYY3nPhPaTpqFQ-3D-3DemgY\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmU88FF6Myq8io-2BqP8UqIdewJUnEPOJ-2F-2FJSJSSxgA0t8ydzUSbuXKljazPSz7JgxQIHTUjJemqJ5FrMiJ6-2BATtKtti05jy6Us4TFy8EvIV4aRMO4hVy2QcQk9v0KY1cPtGmuVqxIJC3B48sRkwn0tkaF0rcR8bXiWRHJFPWDdJmNULDUafGF1TxlivUtrZd7I4skJ-2Fdh5X-2BjUgrqHyjHMaWbU3RbVy4z4bJImx-2FfaRKHOnAqACrjDorOitvKxws28UgykWZuKFNPgVmJ8lwIjPbI-3D">uthor L.R. Knost has said</a>, "Life is amazing. And then it's awful. And then it's amazing again." Where have you seen God working to turn the awful into the amazing? Be specific. 2. TWW Team Member Frank Ramirez says that the takeaway of the Bethlehem story is that "we have to make room (or have room made for us) at the holiday times when the relatives come to town. We have unexpected company, we have to share the bathrooms, it's very inconvenient, but it's part of what makes things special -- or even more horrible than ever!" How are you making room (or having room made for you) this holiday season? How do you connect this to your faith? 4. The holy family needed assistance when they arrived in Bethlehem, and someone gave them the use of a manger. What practical help does your church offer families in difficult transitions? How have you been involved, if at all? What more could you do? How would such service be a form of service to Jesus Christ? </div> Responding to the News Make your holiday travels a part of your faith journey. Like Joseph, see that God is always working to turn the bad into good. Like the shepherds, accept whatever opportunity God is putting before you. And like Mary, see the bright spark of the divine in Jesus, and continue to ponder this story in your heart. Prayer Help us, O God, to make room for people in need, during this holiday season and throughout the year. May all of our travels bring us closer to you, and to your Son Jesus, the baby of Bethlehem. Amen. 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