From the archives of Oral Roberts – Second of three parts
There were the shepherds who heard the angel’s message. There were the wise men who knew it was a star especially akin to divinity, that it was HIS star. There were times of such severe loneliness on the journey that they were tempted to turn back. But they kept going. When they finally reached Bethlehem, they found the Christ-child and worshiped Him. They traveled far to bring rich presents to an unknown peasant Baby who was born and placed in a manger. We are told that after seeing Christ, they turned around and made their lonely way back home by another way to avoid the enemies of Jesus.
Perhaps Mary, in her supreme isolation from other women, felt the terrible burden of loneliness more than any other worker of Christmas. She was called upon to do what no other woman in the history of the world has ever been asked to perform. She entered into a partnership with God, and within her body the Holy Spirit conceived the Holy Child, Jesus. When it was discovered that she, an engaged woman, was with child, she was isolated and held in contempt for days, weeks, and months. She was the subject of vicious gossip. Her fiancé, Joseph, was almost ready to forsake her, and there were those who would have stoned her. Yes, Mary was alone, but she was a worker of Christmas.
Added to her loneliness was the utter loneliness of her betrothed, Joseph. Although he was not the father of the child, he helped bear the reproach that was directed against Mary. But he gave her his name and worked side by side with her that eternity might perform this great mission for all mankind. He, too, was an invaluable worker of Christmas.
