Journey to Bethlehem

As a foreshadowing of His future triumphal entry into Jerusalem as the Son of David and the King of Israel, the unborn Christ is carried by a donkey to Bethlehem to be numbered of the house and lineage of David. Mary looks tenderly, perhaps knowingly, at the shy shepherd boy they pass along their way. Would she have remembered the prophecy that spoke of her future son as the "Shepherd of Israel"? (Psalm 80:1). Mary's hand is held to her womb as she meets the gaze of the shepherd boy as a reminder that "unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given" (Isaiah 9:6). Joseph's focus is on the path ahead, and his hands, one opened and one closed, reflect both the strength and gentleness of the provider and protector.