This is the final four weeks of my pregnancy, and I hope to share it entirely with Mary. She was as pregnant as I when she left Nazareth for Bethlehem. I imagine her riding a donkey, as I try to get comfortable in bed or complain about my back pain. I imagine her smiling along dusty roads as I drink yet another cup of water. How beautiful she must have been. How creation must have bowed at the passing of her whose feet brought Good News. Truly, the rocks and trees must have cried out in exultation as she carried the Savior past.
She was waiting, filled with joy, as she adored the Life within her womb. The most beautiful woman who ever lived, worshipping her Savior for nine months in her womb and growing in breathless wonder as His birth drew near. How she must have radiated as she traveled, a tired pilgrim on the road to Bethlehem.
In the weeks to come, I want to maintain a constant vigil with her in my mind. As I prepare the home for Edmund’s arrival, I desire to do so in deep joy, disregarding the two-thousand years between us as Mary and I fold little baby clothes and make sure we have everything we need for the births of our sons. I know she will understand as I worry about getting enough sleep and making sure he gets enough to eat.
So, now I enter the silence with her, waiting for the birth of Him Through Whom the Stars Were Made and waiting for the birth of little Edmund, whose eyes I cannot wait to meet. Holy Mary, please pray for me.
and we can’t wait to meet little Edmund too! i totally remember the end of my pregnancy – the anticipation and also the sadness that the baby won’t be all mine – it will be time to share! funny, i know. how wonderful that you get to be pregnant during this advent!!
Katie,
What a beautiful post…this is helping me not too be anxious awaiting the arrival of our kids. We have practical issues to deal with but they will work themselves out. It is the state of my soul and heart that are important and keeping Mary foremost as my example will give our children so much more than the creature comforts. I am so happy for you and Devin and the example of love you are. Praying for little Edmund and all of you!
Great post, Katie. We are also expecting our first little one just after Christmas. It’s such a gift to be able to experience the birth of Christ along with the birth of our babe. Like you, I intend to bind myself ever closer to Our Lady during this Advent Season and together we will wait in joyful hope!
Katie, almost 4 years ago I gave birth to my little Stephen on Dec. 29th. I, like you, was profoundly moved by the experience of being at the end of pregnancy during Christmas season. I am often asked about my son getting cheated out of a “real” birthday separate from Christmas celebrations….but I don’t think that’s the case at all–in fact it is a privilege!! He (at the tender age of almost 4) and I really identify with the Christmas story in a unique way. Many blessings to you as you near the end. –Sara
beautiful post katie. we’re praying for you in these last few weeks and cant wait to meet little edmund! i hope you’re getting plenty of rest!