Blame it on Cindy! She made me




And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.

And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.

And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.

For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.
And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,

Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.

And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.

And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child.

And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds.

But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.

And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them.

Luke 2: 8-20

Interesting start . . .

Oh, I have to echo Regina....Very interesting start!

Lynn

Ok, if you insist on "blaming" me, I'll gladly take it.

Great start!

Cindy should make you do things more often.

Very interesting start, Tracy. Can't wait for more.

Lindsy

great start!
and I just want to say after your last amazing story I'm really looking forward to this one.

This is my first first-person experiment, so I apologize if it just doesn't flow.

Thank you for reading!


He hated the darkness of winter. Hated getting up in the dark and coming home in the dark and dealing with all that is dark in the hours in between. The season hadn’t even begun but he was growing more and more morose as each day passed. At least, that's what Jack told me about himself. Many of the shepherds felt the same way and I could easily understand why. In fact, if I wasn't going to be taking this trip, it's very possible that I would feel the same.

I pulled the gate open and stepped back quickly, avoiding the charge of sheep as they were finally released from the barrier of the fold. Jack was immediately on the other side, gently pushing the herd away from the city gates and toward the fields where we would spend many of the following weeks. My father's sheep were healthy and happy, and I planned on keeping them that way.

This would be my first journey into the hillside to watch over the animals and I was silently thankful for the accompaniment of my friends and the other shepherds my father employed. I had anticipated this day for many months but the sheep hadn't been ready to be taken into the fields; and now that they were, I could feel my excitement mounting.

Weeks away from this busy city, constant hours in the fields with no one around but a handful of other shepherds and the sheep; what more could anyone ask for?

It wasn't so much that I hated the city, or my home for that matter, I simply looked forward to nights under the stars and days away from the busyness and crowded streets that had beseeched Bethlehem overnight.

My father told me of the census, and since both he and I were born in Bethlehem, we did not need to travel far to be accounted for. Other travelers, however, made journeys lasting days, even weeks. I could only imagine how frustrated I would be to have to travel so far and then find no place to stay; which had become the biggest problem at the moment. Every Inn, home, and even barn was filled with people. Hundreds more poured in daily only to find no room.

"Watch the side, Bobby," Jack called over the sheep's joyous songs. "There's a few startin' to stray!"

Immediately, I turned when I heard Jack's voice. Even though he was young, his voice held authority - I assumed that came from years of being esteemed as protector of the flock. My father looked up to Jack more than anyone in his employment.

"I got them," I called back, hurrying to three animals who were straying from the others. "Hey, get back there."

"Keep an eye on them, I'm gonna get the rest out, okay?"

I gave a quick nod and watched Jack mount his horse and ride behind the flock, directing them to the field where we would be resting for the night. I felt my pulse rise at the thought. Being a shepherd wasn't exactly a dream for me, but I loved the freedom that it brought.

"All right, moving out!"



The bucket of water in my hand weighed heavily on my side and I struggled to keep my shoulders evenly angled. My entire body ached from the hours of work, but knowing that the day was almost over brought a relief that kept me going. Water splashed onto my skirt and I jumped as the cold droplets trickled down my leg. "Oh," I murmured beneath a sigh. This day simply was not getting any better.

"Tara, please go to the stable," Marta called from the Inn's doorway. "I simply cannot get to them right now."

I looked to her then to the stable that sat behind the Inn. The broken-down building was barely able to be called a stable; I often called it the shack. "But if I don't get this water to Leah, she won't have enough to make the bread."

"I will send her to get it herself. Please go to the stable, now."

Nodding, I detoured from the walkway into the grass. The thorns and sharp stones hidden within immediately assaulted my feet and I bit back a scream as they pierced through my thin sandals. After many weeks working at the Inn to help with the rush of people coming for the census, I had saved my wages to buy new sandals. I could barely wait until I went to the marketplace tomorrow.

Jacob, the owner of the Inn, stepped out of the building and jogged to my side, taking the heavy bucket from me. "Here let me take that," he said softly. My small frame was no match for the endless chores. "Are you going to the stable?"

"Yes, sir. I could have managed," I added, motioning to the pale, which he carried with ease.

He smiled. "Nonsense. My wife has been working you far too hard today and I want you to rest. Go inside and warm up." He glanced up to the sky as we walked, watching a few snowflakes fall from the heavens, then stopped and looked at me. "I insist," he added, sensing my hesitation.

"But, sir, I came here to work for you. I don't want to -"

"And if you're going to work, you're going to have to be healthy." Seeing my smile, he nodded. "There, it's settled. Now go on in."

Thanking him quickly, I turned and walked to the courtyard. The Inn wasn't beautiful, with it's weeded yard and pebbled lot, but it was needed. Many travellers had come to stay over the past week, and now, there was not a single room left - even mine had been given to a family. I didn't mind since it meant that I got to spend more time with the other girls.

"Excuse me." Hearing the voice behind me, I looked over my shoulder and froze. A young man, his eyes silently pleading with me, stood with his hands tightly holding to his donkey. If it wasn't the fatigue that showed in his every motion that made me feel sorry for this small pack of travellers, it was the pregnant woman on the animal. She was very beautiful, but it was somewhat hard to tell beneath the blanket of sweat and her contorted face. I felt my stomach drop as realization hit me. "W-We need a place to stay, Ma'am. My wife, as you can see, is about to have a baby and we need -"

"I'm sorry, sir," Jacob's loud voice startled me. I turned quickly, not knowing that I had been staring at the poor girl. "We have no rooms left. Please move along."

Immediately, the man's hopeful smile fell. I could see the tears welling inside his eyes and felt some in my own; how had they travelled in such a situation. I could only imagine the strain that would be put on my body if I were pregnant, much less riding on a donkey through hills and valleys for who knows how many days.

I turned to Jacob as he approached. "Jacob, don't we have any place?" I pleaded, eager to help the young couple.

Jacob looked to me as though I had lost my mind. Even in the setting sun's light, I could see the surprise on his face.

"No, we do not." He looked back to the man. "What is your name, son?" His tone was gentle and kind. It was not that he was trying to be cruel - by turning them away. I hated to admit it, but he was right. There was no place for them to stay.

"My name is Joseph, and this is Mary," Joseph said, turning to point to his bride. The girl moaned as a contraction washed over her. She grasped her expanded belly and cried, tears rolling down her cheeks. I would have gone to her side if Jacob hadn't placed his hand on my shoulder.

"Joseph, I am very sorry, but we do not have any rooms, not a single -"

"Jacob!" Both men turned to me, startled. I had an idea! "Jacob, the stable! They could stay in the stable! At least until she gave birth."

Jacob seemed unsure, but he slowly nodded. "Yes, yes, I suppose, but that is no place for -"

"Sir, I only need a place for her to lay. I-I do not care about -"

"Then it's settled!" Jacob said, clapping. "Tara, run into the Inn and get Marta. Tell her about the girl."
I broke into a run and ran as quickly as I could to the Inn's door. Bursting through, I located Marta among the servants in the kitchen and called to her. "Marta! You have to come quickly, there's a girl outside and she's pregnant and -"

"Slow down, child," she said, hurrying to my side. "If you don't quiet down, the guests will think the building is about to collapse."

I gasped for breath, then continued. "There's a girl outside and she's about to have a baby. Jacob is taking her to the stable and -"

"The stable?" Marta's hands went to her mouth. "Oh my!" She whispered a sentence that I didn't understand before turning to the other girls. "Leah, Rebecca, come with me. Tara, get some clean rags, some hay, and three buckets of water."

"Yes, Ma'am."

Such an intriguing way to incorporate our team. I'm so happy that Tara is there during this momentus occasion.

Lindsy

Tara is one smart cookie!

Loving the story!

I would say your story, in first person, is flowing very nicely, Tracy! What an interesting take on the Christmas story!! Through your story, you're sharing the REAL reason for the season!

Wow - this has got to be one of the most interesting premises for a STFBE fanfic! Just think, our team is (I believe) going to be witness to the most important event ever! I can't wait to find out just how they're all going to come into the story...

Tina

Tracy....Having just visited Bethlehem on my trip to Israel a few weeks ago, this story has such wonderful meaning to me. Visiting the site of Jesus' birth was one of the many very spiritual experiences on the trip. And this line was so real. The whole country is one big mass of rocks...rocks everywhere. There are so many rocks they don't clear the land where sheep graze. The sheep eat the grasses growing between the rocks.

And what an amazing job writing in first person. Your creativity with our team is boundless and I can't wait to see how you use the rest of the team. I have an idea and am excited with anticipation.

Lynn

Very unique setting and you're doing great on your first person POVs.

kav

This is wonderful, Tracy, and so unique!! You have half of our team there, and I'm sure the other half will soon appear!!!

Your powers of description are so real that I even flinched when Mary had a contraction!! And, you are doing a wonderful job on first person!!!

Joy

The instant that I dismounted and breathed in a lung full of fresh air, I knew that I was free. Tossing the reins over the horse's head, I joined the others at the water's edge, glancing over my shoulder to check on the flock. They seemed to be as excited as I, sensing that freedom was close.

"Hey," one of the shepherds called to Jack. The brown-haired man stood from his kneeling position beside the flowing river's edge and looked toward him. "I hear coyotes over there!" He motioned to the hillside we had just passed.

Jack looked back and nodded, pointing to the opposite side of the water. "We'll pass here and get far away."

"All right."

He glanced to me and sighed. "This is your first time out, isn't it?"

I nodded, rubbing a damp hand over my horse's mane. Without the blazing sunlight to slow us down, we were able to move much quicker, but even without the sun, our pace made left us tired and sweaty; including the animals. "Yeah, it is."

Jack returned to his kneeling position, lifting water with his cupped hands and throwing it over his face. "I didn't think I recognized you from any place but the homestead." I didn't reply, but instead watched him. He had every aspect of a being a shepherd down, but he made the job all his own. He wore the traditional tunic and robe-like outfit, yet he lacked the dull ways of a shepherd. Neither did he smell as many did, or was he messy. His clean-shaven face spoke of that.

"How do you shave in the fields?" I asked, curiosity overcoming my silence.

He chuckled and touched his chin, as if making sure that no bristling hairs had returned. "I don't. To be honest, I don't care if I get a beard like Moses while I'm out here, but when I get back to town, I take it off immediately."

Laughing at his words, I knelt before my horse to the river's edge and held my water sack beneath the surface. The cold pricked at my hands and I silently wondered how the man beside me could simply toss the liquid all over his body without caring. "How did you become a shepherd?"

Jack straightened, walked to his horse to get is own sack, then returned. "By accident, really. I was working for an owner of this Inn in town and one guest had a handful of sheep that he wanted cared for while he stayed for a night." He quietly chuckled. "They were a nasty bunch of animals, but I stayed with them in the stable and they were pretty calm by morning. The owner asked if I wanted a new job and... well, I accepted." He motioned around him, looking to one particularly large hill in the distance that they would soon cross. "And now, I can't imagine working anywhere else. I love the -"

"Freedom?" I suggested, knowing that was the reason I was here.

He looked at me and nodded. "Yeah."

I lifted the dripping skin from the water and asked, "Do you have any girls you got your eye on?"

"Not really," he said, but I could see the smile on his lips; one that only came from liking a girl. "Well, I mean, there are a few."

I walked to my horse and tied the sack to the saddle and looked back. The other men around me hurried to complete their tasks, but Jack moved slowly, almost as if he didn't care. I knew that he probably didn't. After all, there was no time in the mountains and fields.

"Maybe it's not my place, but the look you got makes me think that there's only one." I glanced away but saw him look over his shoulder in my direction.

When I looked back, he was pointing to me, grinning. "You're not as stupid as your ol' man says you are." I laughed. "No, you're right. There's one in town... she's real pretty." He stood and slowly walked to his horse. "Her name is Susan, but I call her Susie."

Just as I had suspected. "So are you -"

"Hey, sir, the flock's gettin' antsy. I think we should be moving on!" Someone yelled from a ways back. Jack glanced to him then back to me. "You ready for freedom?"

I nodded. "Oh yeah."



I struggled to brace myself against the edge of the well as I pulled on the rope, lifting the heavy bucket from the watery distance below. This job was becoming far more difficult as the sunlight drifted away and only moonlight was left to guide me.

"Would you like some help?" A male voice asked. I first thought it was Joseph and was about to reply when I glanced behind me and froze at the sight. The Roman was easily recognizable with the silver helmet and chest protector.

"I-I do not, thank you, sir," I managed before turning back quickly and yanking the rope as hard as I could, hoping the task would soon end. His eyes were still on me when I finally lifted the bucket over the well's edge and brought it to the ground. Almost immediately after I did so, the wooden container tipped and fell, drowning the pebbled ground with water. I stared at it, stunned. Without meaning to, I felt tears prick my eyes and I slowly lowered myself to the wet ground.

The Roman was at my side, his hand touching my shoulder. The strangest thing was that I did not shy from his touch. My day was not getting any better and the feeling of a comforting hand was quite welcome. "It will be fine," he mumbled, picking up the bucket and tossing it back to the well. I looked up, surprised. No Roman ever helped a Jew, much less assisted an incapable servant girl.

I watched as his muscled arms began tugging the rope, his body strong enough to withstand the pressure that it returned. His every movement spoke of discipline and muscular ability. After only a few seconds, he lifted the bucket to the ground, secured it, then held out a hand to me. I took it, although hesitant. What would people think if they saw me with a Roman? "Are you all right?" He was terribly handsome.

"I am, thank you," I whispered. I made the mistake of looking into his eyes and felt my knees go weak; I was not supposed to feel this way. "I-I... I have bring that away."

He nodded. "Would you like me to carry it?" he asked, taking the container into a strong hand and lifting it with ease.

"No, thank you. My master will fire me if I don't do it myself." I smiled and saw him do the same.

"So you're a servant girl?"

My brow rose as I glanced down to my body, covered with ugly clothing, sandals that were barely held together by their own material, and hair was un-kept and un-cared for. "Yes. I don't see that as being difficult to tell."

He chuckled and slowly handed me the bucket. I took it from him and held it against my side, careful to not strain with the weight lest he insist on taking it from me. "I rarely see a beautiful slave girl," he said, his voice low and deep. I felt a shiver run down my spine. "But you, you are."

I was about to respond when I heard voices behind me, most likely Marta and Leah coming to see what was taking me so long. I looked over my shoulder, suddenly afraid - what if they saw me with him? He must have sensed my fear because when I looked back, he was already turning and walking hastily away. I would have called out a thank you for his assistance if Leah hadn't come to my side. "What on earth is taking you so long?" she asked, her face pale. "We need that water!"

Marta soon came beside her and nodded quickly before taking the bucket from me in one swift motion. "Tara, listen to me." I strained to keep my mind on her words and off of the handsome soldier or the desperate screams I heard coming from the stable. "If you cannot do the errands, I will have Leah do them." I knew what she was saying; I would help with the labour if I did not work faster.

I nodded quickly. "Yes, ma'am. I'll go get the rags."

She seemed to ignore my words as she hurried back to the stable with Leah directly behind.

I love the friendship that's developing between them.

Very interesting new character...who is this stranger who comes to help an exhausted young lady just when she needs it? And he's handsome too!

I love how you're jumping from Bobby to Tara and back during this story. And why do I sense that they're practically destined to come together as this story develops?

But, who is this handsome stranger?

Lindsy

I'm in agreement...who is this handsome Roman soldier who has made Tara forget why she came for the water?

Lynn

I can see the friendship between Jack and Bobby starting to grow!! And, evidently, Jack already has his eye on Sue!!!

Who was this handsome Roman soldier who helped Tara???

Joy

With my inability to write long posts, this one is simply amazing

Thanks so much for reading!


"We'll stop here," Jack announced, swinging one leg over his horse and stepping onto the ground. He glanced around, surveying the empty fields. I did the same; this was a perfect place. Keeping my eye on the side of the flock that I patrolled, I swung off my horse. "Bobby, push them this way," Jack said as he motioned to the hillside.

I nodded and hurried behind the animals. "Move it," I called, waving my arms. They instantly moved to the hillside without a problem. One of the other shepherds rode to my horse and walked it to the place where we would stay. A single, barren tree stood beside the hill, marking the location Jack had selected. Once the sheep were together, I stepped back, assuming that they would be able to run free now.

I was indeed correct. Almost immediately after we left them, the animals began to chatter and sing; running, jumping, and walking, and enjoying their freedom from the fold.

Jack was by the tree when I came to his side. "What happens now?"

"Well," he said, crouching beside the large fabric he had attached to his horse earlier. "We'll set up camp here and then start a fire. If we can, we'll sleep til morning and then... well... nothing really happens."

I couldn't help but grin. "Perfect." Looking to the sky above, I noted that the almost invisible ball of sun was sinking behind the horizon. Soon, it would be dark. I quickly turned my attention to the tree. "Do you want me to get some wood for a fire?"

Jack nodded absently, separating the fabric from the twine that had surrounded it. "Yeah, break apart this tree, but only use a little of it. This'll need to last us the month."

"Really?" I asked, surprised. I figured someone had brought some sticks in case there were no other sources. But when Jack nodded again, I realized that shepherds did not care about the amount of firewood they had; it wasn't a necessary worry. As I scanned the horizon, I found a few more trees in the distance. We would be fine.

I quickly set to work on the tree, tearing dead sticks from the large branches. The other shepherds - I counted six - tethered their horses to a massive log lying nearby, and came to help Jack with the tent. "Hold it there, Myles," I heard him say a few times. "Hey, D, yank it a little harder there."

The men obviously held Jack as leader. After gathering a few branches, I walked near where the shelter was being formed and kicked some dirt and rocks from their place, making a soft bed for the sticks. I made a small layer of pebbles and rocks, then added the sticks. Feeling as though I were being watched, I turned back and spotted one of the men staring at me. "Can I help you?"

"You ever made a fire before, boy?" the coloured man asked.

I nodded. "Of course I have. Why?"

He came to my side and kneeled by the fire pit. He took a few sticks from the pile and I watched him strike them together three times, starting a flame. He slowly lowered it to the other pieces of wood, blowing gently to encourage the fire. After a moment, the fire was beginning to produce heat. He stood and smiled, then went back to helping the other men.

I suddenly felt like a child amongst the other men. They knew far more than me and were able to do much more. But, I decided, I didn't come here to be great, I came here to enjoy time alone.

"Do you need my help with anything, Jack?" I called. Receiving a no, I picked up my staff and wandered away from the talking men. The sheep were no longer huddled in a large flock, but had instead spread over the fields, grazing and reveling in the cool air that the dusk brought. Seeing a boulder, I walked to it, jumping on, and silently sat, watching the sun go down.

Something inside of me told me that this trip would change me, but I didn't know just how yet.


Judging by the position of the moon, the time was nearing midnight. I stifled a yawn as I blindly lifted a pile of rags from the wooden shelf. The poor girl had been crying and screaming through the evening and now, nearly five hours since the two arrived, she was beginning to quiet, though not completely.

I lowered the rags to my arm and slowly walked out of the Inn toward the stable. As I neared, I heard Marta's calming voice trying to soothe the girl. Knocking on the door, I gently pushed it open and stepped in, my senses immediately assaulted. The smells of manure and animals filled the small building and sounds of chattering amongst the animals continued while Mary struggled to keep her moans silent.

Marta looked up from her position beside the girl and stood, quickly taking the rags from me. "Tara, please wash those and bring them back."

I nodded and leaned down to take the basket filled with used rags. I felt my stomach churn at the sight. Leah caught my eye from the corner of the building and she motioned to me. I went to her side. "What's wrong?" I asked, my voice hushed.

"Her husband is probably worried sick. You should tell him that everything is all right."

I wasn't convinced; Mary certainly didn't look all right. "Are you sure? The poor girl has been in labour for hours."

Leah looked at me and I felt her scrutiny. "Have you ever seen a birth before, Tara?" I shook my head. "Well then you obviously don't know how long it takes. Some women have labour a whole day. Some women die from it, if they lose too much blood." She caught my glance to the basket filled with rags and quickly added, "But that's not going to happen here. Marta knows what she's doing, now hurry and tell Joseph."

Marta looked to us at the sound of her name and nodded toward the door. I knew better than to stall. I walked to the basket, picked it up, and hurried from the building. As soon as I stepped outside, I released the breath I didn't know I had been holding and breathed in fresh air.

I hurried to the well and used a bucket I had left filled to clean out the rags. After only a few minutes, I was done and brought the basket back to the stable.

Seeing, Marta gave me an exhausted smile and stood from Mary's side. "Tara, you've worked yourself crazy today. Thank you. Now go to sleep."

There was something deep inside of me that seemed to scream the opposite of what my body wanted, though I had no idea why. "Um, thank you. I'll just go tell Joseph that Mary will be all right... she will be, right?"

Marta nodded. "Oh yes. The baby's gettin' ready to come." After wishing me a good night, she turned back to the girl and kneeled beside her, rubbing a damp cloth over her sweaty forehead.

Unable to take the stench that lingered in the barn, I quickly turned and walked to the Inn. I walked into the large dining room as quietly as I could, surveying the few faces that had yet to retire to their rooms. In the far corner of the room, I found Joseph.

"Joseph?" I asked as I approached. The poor man jerked his head up, seemingly just awoken. "I'm sorry," I said quietly.

"Oh, no, I didn't mean to..." he trailed off, looking at the door I had come through, then to me. "Is Mary all right?"

"Yes, she's doing fine," I said, though not honestly believing my own words. "Marta said that she's coming close to having the baby." Seeing the relief in his eyes, I slowly sat down beside him, and asked, "You care for her, don't you?"

"Of course I do. She's my wife. I love her even though..."

My curiosity got the best of me. "Even though...?"

He sighed, rubbing two fists over his eyes. "Even though the baby is not mine." I was taken aback; completely shocked. I had never heard of such a thing! He must have noticed because he quickly continued, "No, no, she was not unfaithful... I don't think."

"Joseph, may I be honest?" He nodded. "What in the world are you talking about?"

Joseph chuckled quietly, then said, "The Lord... He gave her the baby."

"What?"

"Mary was alone one day and she... she was visited by an angel." I felt as though I were being told a story, one that no one could really believe, yet at the same time, I was inclined to listen. "H-He told her that she would conceive and have a son."

I lowered my head as to not draw attention from the others in the room. "And you believe her?" I whispered.

"Yes, I think so. She is not the kind to be unfaithful. She... I wouldn't have believed it so well if I had not, too, be visited by an angel."

"Joseph, are you -"

"I know, this all sounds so crazy." He raked a hand through his hair, in an almost angry manner. "I sometimes wonder if I'm not losing my mind, but the truth is... that I was lying in bed one night, after Mary told me these things, and I was considering breaking off the betrothal. What would the town think of me marrying a girl like that? But, then I awoke to an angel. And I swear it on my life. I don't know how I knew it was one, but I did. He told me that I should take Mary as my wife as the child she is carrying is the Messiah."

Each word he said drew me into the story more, until he uttered the final word. "The Messiah?" I squeaked. "Are you serious?"

"Yes. The scriptures speak of him, that he would be born to a virgin, right?"

I had, to be honest, never considered the words. But now that he stated them in such a fashion, I had to agree. "Yes, I suppose so. So... you think your wife is carrying the Messiah?"

It took him a moment, but slowly, Joseph nodded. "Yes. I do. And the women in there are helping to deliver Him into the world."

I did not need any time to consider it; I was immediately on my feet and running for the door.

Ooh! This post gave me chills.

Lindsy

Tracy, what an awesome post. Hmmmm, I'm wondering, is Bobby going to come alone to the Inn, or is Jack going to come with him? Lindsy is right, you gave me goose bumps here. You have put me in Tara's worn sandals and I can feel how awestruck she is and how she can't wait to tell Marta and Leah the news they are about to assist with birth of the Christ child. Beautifully written, capturing the wonder of the most significant event in the history of the world.

Lynn

I was going to comment on Tara running to tell the others that Mary was the mother of the Messiah, but then I thought about Bobby, thinking he was out on this trip as a sort of "rest cure." He has no idea . . . This trip WILL change his life. He, along with Tara and the rest, will be on the front lines, so to speak, of seeing the Messiah!

I can just see all of them "Rejoicing with great joy!"

Beautiful writing, Tracy . . .

I'm going to have to everyone one else on this one! They've said it all!

You're doing an amazing job Tracy!

So, what is Tara going to do with this new information?

kav

WOW, this is awesome Tracy. What a wonderful way to join the team with the true meaning of Christmas. I'm blessed.

Thanks to each and every one who is reading this story! I'm so thankful to have such wonderful readers This post took a while to write and I don't want to have to wait any longer, so I'm only posting Bobby's POV. Tara's will come tomorrow, hopefully

I hope you all have a most wonderful Christmas and a blessed new year!

Merry Christmas!!


I had never seen a night so calm; the air was crisp with a hint of wind, though nothing that rustled the grass below. I felt a chill run down my spine and moved closer to the fire. Jack, who was seated on the ground near me, quietly asked, "What do you make of the star?"

"Star?" I asked, glancing at him.

He nodded and looked above him to the dark blanket above us. I followed his gaze and laid eyes upon the largest star I had ever seen. It was brighter than the others that dotted the night sky and also the biggest among them. "I've never seen it before."

The sounds of bleating sheep in the distance nearly drowned his reply. "There's an old man in town who thinks that the star is a sign of the Messiah's arrival." He was silent for a moment, staring blankly into the fire, before he added, "I don't believe it."

I was quiet for many minutes, considering such a thing. I knew that the scriptures spoke of a Messiah and his arrival, but never was there a date given; that's what frustrated me about the holy books. Everything within them was secretive, almost as if no one was really supposed to understand them. I had spent many hours fighting with my father about the subject, and even though I found my argument to be true, I always let him believe that I ended up thinking the same as he: God wrote the scriptures. That was reason enough for us not to understand them.

And then, there was another topic of interest. God. I can't say I didn't believe in Him, but I also couldn't strongly say that I did. I suppose, in a way, I wasn't sure.

"What do you think?" Jack asked, plucking me from my thoughts.

I cleared my throat, for some reason unnerved by his question. "I-I don't have an opinion on the matter."

The young man seemed surprised. I kept my eyes away from him, making sure to not look at him directly or else risk a debate. I instead looked back to the star above. It was beautiful, almost mesmerizing.

"How can you not have opinion?" a new voice asked from behind me. I looked over my shoulder and watched as one of the shepherds walked to the fire and took a seat opposite me. "I have opinions about anything." I could hear the smile in his voice. He must have understood my silent question and quickly said, "The name is Myles Leland... the third."

I waved slightly. "Good to meet you, Myles."

"You might not think so in a few days," Jack added with a chuckle, before taking a sip of water from his container.

Myles glanced at him, a sarcastic look on his face, then turned his attention back to me. The man was refined in every way; he too did not fit the definition of a shepherd. "You're the boss' son, right?" he asked and I nodded. "Why are you here then? If I were the boss' son, I certainly wouldn't be out in the middle of nowhere watching a hundred sheep."

"I wanted to get away from everything and this was the best way," I replied, shrugging. The more I said it, the weaker my reasons became. Why had I really come? Something was tugging inside of me, begging to question myself, but I continued to shut that part of me down. "I feel restless". That much was certainly true.

"Restless, huh?" Myles quietly asked, picking up a small rock and smoothing it between his hands. He then tossed it into the fire and watched as the flames bowed around it, a mass of sparks flying into the air.

I was about to say something when suddenly a bright light exploded from the fire. The three of us dove back, covering our heads. My first thought was that the rock held a poison that made the fire erupt, but when I looked back, my body shaking, I was absolutely awestruck.

Jack and Myles' eyes were set on the image before us, each looking as shocked as I felt.

The bright light had manifested itself into one form; a body. I could barely look at it, yet I forced my eyes to stay trained on it. "Fear not," a deep voice said. The voice was unlike anything I had ever heard; it was rich and sounded as if it came from heaven itself. This thought struck me immediately after; maybe it had. "for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people," the voice continued. It took me a moment to realize that the voice was coming from the body. I squinted, trying to make out features, but I couldn't. It was indistinct - and so beautiful.

"W-what is this?" I heard Jack whisper, his voice shaking.

I turned the words over in my mind, trying to make sense of them, but by the time I was beginning to grasp them, it continued, "For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord." I could feel my entire body trembling as I cowered behind the fire, completely fixated on the being that spoke of something I did not understand. "And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger."

A manger? I asked myself. If this so called Saviour was born, why would he be lying in a feeding trough?

Immediately after the words, the light exploded again, and for an instant, it was gone. Then, just as quickly as it had disappeared, another explosion of light filled the night sky, but this time, the light continued to fill the sky, forms of men within. From their mouths I heard, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men."

And suddenly, they were gone.

Only the sounds of crickets in the distance and a few bleats from the sheep filled the air.

I was completely dumbstruck. I forced my eyes away from where the figures had been and looked at Jack. "What did we just see?" I whispered.

"Angels," I heard Myles say at the same volume. "They were... they were angels."

"Angels?" I repeated, unsure of anything that I heard. I ran a hand over my face. Was this a dream?

"What did they say? A baby in a manger?" Jack asked.

I nodded. "In the city of David."

"But where?"

"Bethlehem?" Myles offered.

I looked around me and found the other four shepherds staring at the sky, having obviously seen the same as us. I suddenly stood, a feeling of hope thrust inside me from nowhere. "Let's go."

"Go where?"

"To Bethlehem. Let's find this baby."

Myles looked at me as if I were foolish. "You want to go -"

Jack cut him off by standing and coming to my side. "The angels said that he was our Saviour. Let's go see him."

"T-they came to us," I quietly said. "Let's at least see if we can find him. It can't be that hard; I mean, how many babies are born near a manger?"

Jack nodded quickly. "Yes, yes." A smile lifted his lips as he exclaimed, "We saw angels!"

I loved this line...so real.

You did a great job with this!

Good chills. I promise. Very good chills.

Lindsy

I have to agree with Cindy. I felt like I was there with the shepherds watching the angels! Awesome writing, Tracy!

I hope you had a very Merry Christmas!

Lynn

This is wonderfully written, Tracy!! You have made this so real!! And, have captured all our favorite characters perfectly!!!

I agree - this has brought chills - good chills!!!

Joy

I just got caught up with this Tracy, and I'me so glad I did. Excellent story telling.

Tina

I felt my pulse jump when I stepped into the stable and heard the sweating young girl cry out for the final time. Her desperate plea for the baby's arrival echoed in the building, and for a few seconds, there were no other sounds; even the animals within were silent.

Then, from a part of the stable that was just out of sight, I heard the gentle cry of the newborn. I felt tears well in my eyes, almost as if the child were my own, and I could barely contain my joy. At the same time, however, I needed verification. Was this baby truly the Messiah?

I walked a bit further into the dark building and caught sight of Marta and Leah standing in a far corner, and judging by the direction of the crying, I assumed that the child was with them there. I looked to Mary and found her completely still, her eyes closed. Immediately, I panicked and hurried to her side. "Mary, are you all right?"

Her eyes flew open and when her gaze met mine, I saw something in them that I can't really describe; I suppose undeniable hope would be one way of putting it. She nodded slowly, completely exhausted from the day's activities. "Yes... I'm all right." She glanced in the direction of the women then back to me. "Is the baby okay?"

"Tara, is that you?" I heard Marta ask before I could respond.

I looked to Mary with a hopeful look then went to Marta's side. "Yes, it's me."

She motioned to the child that lay in a feeding trough and my breath caught. My eyes locked onto his perfect face and it took several moments for me to focus on anything else. I had seen many newborn babies in my life, but never had I been in awe of one. This baby, though only that, held an heir that was possessed by royalty. And it quickly occurred to me that this child was of the highest royalty.

"Tara, did you hear anything that I said?"

I jerked my eyes away from the baby. Leah hurried to wrap the baby in warm cloths before carrying it to Mary. I forced my focus on Marta and shook my head. She gave an exasperated sigh and placed her hands on her hips. It was then that I noticed her hands shaking. Before she spoke, I said, "Marta, do you know who that child is?"

Her mouth closed quickly and she looked at me with a quizzical look. "Yes, it is a baby."

I shook my head. "No, He's the Messiah." She laughed out loud. "I'm serious, Marta. I talked to Joseph and he said -"

"Ah!" She suddenly said, stopping me. "You had better go tell that poor man that his son is born."

"Marta, listen to me!"

"No, Tara, listen to me. I don't want to hear about your childish ravings. I am tired and I need to sleep; go tell him." She pronounced the last words very slowly and I knew she was not in the mood to listen to me anymore.

However, I was undeterred. I nodded and ran from the building, gasping a breath of fresh air when I pushed open the door. The sight of the small child stayed in my mind as I made my way to the Inn's door, unaware of the shards of rocks beneath my feet. "Joseph!" I cried when the door burst open. I was immediately met by Jacob's 'shhh' but that didn't stop me.

I ran to Joseph's table and he stood, excitement dancing in his eyes. "Yes?"

"Joseph, you... she... I... He's here!"

Joseph wrapped me in his arms, crying with joy, before turning and jogging to the door. He turned to Jacob as if he wanted to say something but instead hurried from the room. My feet were planted on the floor and I didn't want to move; I didn't want this night to ever end. What a miraculous occasion!

"Are you okay, Tara?" Jacob asked, coming to my side.

I nodded to him and grinned. "The baby in there... He's the Messiah, Jacob. I know he is."

Jacob returned my smile then patted my shoulder in a fatherly manner. He nodded. "I talked to Joseph."

Beautiful!

I have to agree. Very beautiful. Tara's excitement made me excited.

Lindsy

I love how Tara believed instantly.

kav

Tracy, I can feel the excitement and the awe!!!

Joy

Thank you!


I knew I was not crazy, but judging by the looks on the faces of the men and women we passed, they did not share my certainty. We, shepherds, had left our flock of sheep behind and hurried away to find a newborn baby in a manger after a sky full of angels told us about Him.

Alright, I can see how we might have seemed a little bit crazy.

"Excuse me!" I called to a man heading into an Inn. I noticed the small, cave-like structure that sat behind the large building and my heart began to pound at twice its regular rhythm; however, it had been elevated for several hours. The man turned to me, his eyes wide. At such an hour, no one should be running through the streets, much less yelling to people. He hushed me quickly, waving a hand to bring silence, but I was far too excited to be quiet. "Sir, please, tell me. Is there a baby in that building?"

The poor bearded fellow was completely overwhelmed, not only by my astonishingly accurate question, but also by the six men that joined me. "Uh," he stammered. "Y-yes, there is. But... how did you know?"

I grinned at the old man and couldn't help but clasp my hands on his muscled shoulders. "Sir, you wouldn't believe me if I told you." Closing my eyes, I breathed in deeply then looked to the stable. "May we go in? Please?"

He glanced to each one of us, our clothes dirty and muddy, our hair unruly and uncombed, and our words as shocking as our appearance. Slowly, he nodded and motioned to the stable. "But please do not frighten them," he called as we hurried to the building.

All of us stopped at the door and I turned to them. "Are you ready?" Each of them nodded and I slowly pushed the wooden door open. It creaked quietly as the men behind me crowded for a glimpse of the child.

"Can I help you?" I heard a man ask. The stable was dimly lit, with only two candles on a far side and one beside a young girl, but I could make out the outline of a man standing nearby.

I cleared my throat and raked a hand through my hair. I heard the men beside me move nervously as I spoke, "We are shepherds and we... well, we were watching our sheep" - I smiled at the use of that word. Since when did the sheep become mine as well? - "and we saw..." I glanced at Jack, hoping he could take over. I wasn't certain what to say.

Jack stepped forward, his short frame barely seen in the lack of light. "Sir, my name is Jack, these are my friends. We were visited by... angels tonight, sir."

I heard a gasp from the silhouette and the young girl stared at us with something that I would describe as awe. "I-I welcome you," the male voice said. I heard the crackle of hay as he came toward us, mixed with the soft sounds of animals. Among them, however, I heard one sound that made my heart stop; a baby's quiet whimpers.

"Is that your son?" I asked, my limbs shaking.

"Yes."

"M-May we see him? The a-angels... they told us that we would find a baby here... and that was he was our Saviour." The words tasted odd in my mouth, and I could only imagine how they would sound to this young couple. But, to my surprise, the man laughed as if he had heard a most wonderful joke.

"Praise God!" he said, loudly. "Oh, God, praise You!" His hands were suddenly on mine, shaking them heartily. "Please, please go see Him."

I silently wondered about the man's behavior as he took the hands of each of us, whispering some words that I couldn't hear. I looked at Jack and he nodded toward the girl. We crossed the muddy room, completely ignorant of the odors that hung in the air, and came to her side.

She seemed to be barely old enough to be in her teen years, much less a mother. But my thoughts quickly shifted from her to the child in her arms when she placed the small bundle of cloth into a nearby manger. I tried to remember if I had mentioned the manger, but couldn't recall; truly this was not a dream and the angels were not a hallucination!

I dropped to my knees as the candle light danced across the face of the newborn, completely unable to stand. I felt Jack touch my shoulder as he did the same. "Lord God," I whispered in a hushed tone. The sleeping baby stretched his tiny fingers, as if somehow reaching for me. I, without thinking, gently touched the hand. The fingers wrapped tightly around one of mine and I felt tears sting my eyes. "Surely He is..." I wanted to speak, but my voice broke and I couldn't. Everything within me, all of my questions and doubts, everything that I held as 'belief' crumbled in that moment.

Tears coursed down my cheeks and I knew, I knew, without doubt that this tiny baby was the Saviour of the world. Through my own quiet sobs, I heard Jack's emotion-filled voice ask, "What is His name?"

The girl quietly said, "Jesus."

I love the way you reinforce Bobby's point of view with the words "his short frame". To Bobby, he would be rather short.

What a simple and yet amazing moment!

Incredible!

I've got goosebumps. Awesome.




Poor Jack. Even in Biblical times, his stature gets him no respect.

Tina

Ooh... me too.

Lindsy

P2-33 & 38 - Tracy, those two posts were stunning! I agree with the others' comments on the noted posts. In addition, I was right there with Tara, exasperated at Marta's disblief, but quickly realizing she couldn't convince her, so left to go tell Joseph. I could feel the relief in Joseph's voice that others knew what he and Mary knew. Such reverence beholden only for the King of Kings. This is a beautiful, awe inspiring story, Tracy.

Lynn

Thank you all for your wonderful, inspiring comments! I just love this story and am so happy that you all are enjoying it


My almost constant routine of hurrying to the well and lugging a bucket back was interrupted when Jacob told me, breathlessly, about the men inside the stable. His eyes were wide and his every motion was excited. "They came to me and one of them, he asked me if-if there was a baby inside. Can you believe it, Tara?"

I was, perhaps, not as shocked as him because the more he spoke, the more confused I became. "What do you mean, Jacob? What are you talking about?"

He took a deep breath, then began, "There are seven men in there" - he motioned to the stable - "who came to me and asked if there was a baby in the stable. They knew! I don't know how, but those shepherds knew that a baby had been born in there. A-and then I stood outside the stable and..." he shifted.

"What, Jacob?"

"One of them said that they had been visited by a-angels while they were watching their sheep."

The bucket in my hand slipped from my grasp and clattered to the stony earth. "What?" I breathed, unable to comprehend his words. Joseph had spoken of angels and even though I truly believed him, I wasn't certain about angels. But, suddenly, I was. "Can I see them? May I talk to the men?"

Jacob looked at me, surprised. "You want to talk to the shepherds?"

I nodded. "Yes, I want to know what they looked like."

"What who looked like?"

"The angels!" I exclaimed. "Are they normal men? Are they special?"

"Special?" Jacob questioned, his brow raised. "No, there wasn't anything special about them. They were dirty, smelly, and they looked exactly like shepherds."

I couldn't help but smile at his descriptions. He was right; these men were ordinary. Just like Joseph was an ordinary man, and Mary was an ordinary girl. "I'm going in," I said before walking to the stable, my haphazard pace tripping my feet. As I walked to the wooden door, I stopped and listened. There were voices inside, very quiet, and I was certain that I could hear someone crying.

I slowly pushed the door open and walked in. The men mirrored Jacob's description, most of their figures barely noticeable among the dirty building, but one man caught my attention and my sight was locked onto him. He was obviously tall, even though his hunched form nearly hid the fact. His body sat beside a feeding trough and as my eyes grazed the manger, I saw the baby lying inside. I smiled at the sight; this child, this Messiah, was laid in a manger, of all things.

It was also then that I realized that the quiet sobbing came from that man. His one hand was draped along the edge of the wooden manger and I could see the child's tiny hand wrapped around one of his fingers.

My heart jumped at the sight and I fought to keep my own eyes from welling up. I was not, normally, an emotional girl, but this particular moment hit me as hard as if someone had struck me. Here, in this smelly old building stood people whose lives would forever be changed - because of one baby. Why? I wasn't certain; but if you could have seen him, if his tiny eyes had looked your way, you would understand how I felt.

"Tara?" I heard Mary whisper. I suddenly felt all eyes turn to me, even though I couldn't see them.

I nodded. "Yes, it's me."

Mary's light tone was laced with joyful emotion. "Please, come here."

I slowly made my way past the animal stalls and came to her side, slowly kneeling. "Do you need anything?"

"No, no, I'm fine," she said. I could see her smile in the candle light, the utter content written in her eyes. "These men," she quietly said, motioning to the men standing nearby, and the one beside the manger. My eyes fell on him again. "They came to visit us. They saw an angel, Tara, and it told them about Jesus. Can you believe it?"

I dared not speak; the events of the past few hours were weighing heavily on my senses and I found it difficult to think. "I-I don't know what to say," I choked.

The man near the trough looked up and locked eyes with me. Even though he was barely more than a silhouette, he was very handsome, I could see. The tears in his eyes fell onto his stubbled cheek and I felt the urge to wipe them away. Mary turned her attention to the men speaking with Joseph, but I kept mine on the stranger.

He nodded in my direction and I did the same, returning the gentle gesture. He glanced away, looking to the baby, then back to me. "H-have you seen Him?" he whispered, almost inaudible.

I nodded. "Yes, I have."

He turned back to the child, this time not looking back to me. This man was completely entranced by the young baby, and I understood why. Whenever I looked at Him, I felt an overwhelming sense of peace; as if I need not worry about anything, if I could just stay with Him. Suddenly, I stood and strode from the stable, not entirely sure why.

As soon as the door burst open, I fell to the ground as sobs wracked my body. Why? I'm still not sure. It was as if everything that had happened finally broke me.

After a moment of simply lying there, tears pouring down my face, I felt a hand on my shoulder. I didn't look up, but instead allowed him to lift me into his arms. And as my sobs increased, I knew that this man was the stranger.

Tracy, I'm catching up, and I just wanted to tell you that this is a beautiful story. What a beautiful way for Bobby and Tara to meet . . .

I love the instant connection between the two.

Again you've reduced me to goosebumps and shivers. Beautiful post, Tracy. The connection between Bobby and Tara because of the tiny bundle in the manger just makes me

Lindsy

Wow. What a story Bobby and Tara will have to tell their grandkids about how they met...

Tina

I can only echo -- what an exceptional way for Bobby and Tara to lay eyes on each other for the first time. To have shared something so sacred ...well, wow!

kav

You aren't being presumptuous, are you?

Thanks to Cindy for her constant help!


"H-have you seen Him?" I asked quietly. The young woman seemed to know the mother of the child and had probably even helped with the birth, and I wasn't sure why I asked; I simply couldn't take my mind off of Him.

Her small figure straightened as she nodded. "Yes, I have," she replied at the same volume.

I looked to Jesus and gently touched his forehead with the hand He was not grasping. The amazing feeling of piece overwhelmed me and I stared at the sleepy baby, my eyes still damp from moments earlier. I simply could not understand why all of this had happened to me. Everything had begun so quickly, the angels, coming to this smelly building, seeing the child... I silently wondered if this was all a dream.

A wonderful, perfect dream.

It was then that I realized how the feeling I had felt in the beginning of our trip was true; this had changed me. I would never be the same - though I wasn't certain why. He was a baby, that was all. But the angels spoke of Him as if he were the most amazing child to ever be born. They spoke of Him as if he belonged to the highest court of royalty.

Out of the corner of my eye I saw the young woman stand and hurry from the stable. My eyes broke away from the baby and followed her. When she pushed the door open, I felt a need to follow her. I slowly unwrapped the baby's fingers from my hand – reluctantly - and stood. I glanced to the baby's mother, then to the shepherds. Jack caught my eye and nodded, as if he understood.

They continued their quiet conversation with Joseph as I walked to the sagging door and pushed it open.

The small woman was on the grass, her body trembling as she cried.

Going to her side, I picked her up and wrapped my arms tightly around her, my forwardness surprising me. I didn't know her; I had never seen her before in my life. Yet, when I had seen her in the stable, I felt as if she were looking right through me - as if we had known each other forever. My heart's random beats increased when she laid her head against my chest, her quiet sobs slowly subsiding.

"Thank you," she whispered against my dirty tunic. I didn't understand why she wouldn't pull away.

I nodded, then knew she hadn't seen, and hoarsely whispered, "You're welcome." I wasn't certain what she was thanking me for, but I didn't really care.

"He's beautiful, isn't?"

I looked down at her and smiled. "Yeah, He is. I-I've never seen a child like Him."

She pulled back slightly and looked into my eyes. Her own green pools were so beautiful, just like the rest of her. "He's not like any other child... is He?"

"No," I whispered, shaking my head. I knew I should probably let her go, but I didn't want to. For some reason, she felt so right in my arms. As if knowing my thoughts, she glanced at my arms and I quickly released her. Her tear stained face turned away from me, then looked back. Even in the gentle light of the moon, I could see that she was exhausted. "Are you alright?" I asked.

She nodded. "Yes... I'm fine." She quickly rubbed the heel of her hands against her eyes, the same way a child would. I smiled at the innocent action. "I-I don't know why I'm crying."

I shrugged slightly. "I know why." Her eyes looked to me and they were filled with questions, so I quietly asked, "What do you want to know?"

She giggled, slowly standing. I did the same. "I want to know what they looked like?"

"The angels?"

"Yes."

My tall form hovered over hers and I suddenly felt very protective of the girl; again, even though I didn't know the least thing about her. I didn't even know her name. "What's your name?" I blurted, knowing that these was not the words she wanted.

A surprised smile covered her lips. "Tara," she whispered. "What's yours?"

"Bobby," I replied. I then cleared my throat, and proceeded to answer her question. Unsure if I could describe them correctly, I closed my eyes and tried my best to imagine them. "Well," I began slowly. "They were beautiful... very bright. The one that came first, he was... he was white. It was as if he appeared from the fire."

"They sound beautiful," Tara murmured.

When I opened my eyes, I saw that hers were closed. Smiling, I continued, "Their voices were like... scarlet."

Her eyes fluttered open and she looked to me. "What?"

I chuckled, knowing that such a comparison was odd. "Have you ever seen scarlet, Tara?" I asked, her name feeling so right on my tongue. She nodded. "Isn't it perfect?" She repeated the motion. "That's the way they were; as perfect as a never-touched fabric." I shook my head slightly. "That is an odd way of putting it, I guess.

She smiled. "It's a very... vivid way." Our laughs mingled and I felt my heart flutter. Tara glanced away, as if nervous, then looked back. "Thank you for telling me. I so wish I could have seen them. You know Joseph saw an angel as well? And Mary?" Even though I hadn't known such, I wasn't surprised. If we, lowly shepherds, were told of this child's birth, his parents would certainly have been told as well. She placed her hands against her heart and looked to the star-littered sky. "I wonder if they've told anyone else about the Him."

"I don't know," I said, following her gaze.

The night was so beautiful. I silently wondered if we were the only ones who had been told. If so, how awesome would that be?

"Do you have to go back to your sheep?" Tara asked after a moment, her eyes still on the canvas above us.

I nodded and said, "I think so, although I don't want to." I looked over my shoulder, to the stable, and sighed. I wanted to go back in. Tara must have sensed my longing because she mumbled something I didn't hear then hurried back to the stable. I followed quickly.

Tara and Bobby have really made a connection in this post.

Beautiful as always, Tracy.

Lindsy