Imagine

     While reading, visualize this situation, feel the emotions...


     Imagine being young and innocent, and striking up a deal with someone you don't know, but have heard wonderful things about.  Imagine knowing that this decision will make you an outcast.  Imagine trying to convince--pleading with--the man you've pledged yourself to that you have not been with anyone...ANYone!  Imagine loving this man all the more when he realizes that you are being honest--that he must help you fulfill this "deal."
     Imagine a journey in the heat.  Riding on a donkey, while nearly ready to deliver your part of this deal.  Your fiance' guiding you over rocky terrain; through empty lands.  Imagine your fear and desperation.  Imagine second guessing your decision over and over again.  Imagine seeing that fear in the eyes of your love.
     Imagine the joy of seeing the village you were instructed to visit, only to find no one willing to help you.  When your only hope of shelter appears, you are excited!  Then you learn they can not help you because all of their rooms are full.  Not even room in the lobby.  The delivery is at hand.  You are terrified.  Imagine the owner of the establishment offering you shelter in the only place he can think of.  Imagine your fiance' rushing, clumsily, to arrange hay for you to lay on.  The animals rustling as your delivery arrives.
     Imagine holding your baby for the first time.  Imagine your joy, your fear, your overwhelming love.  Imagine looking around you and seeing light.  It is a bright, warm light full of love and promise.  Even the animals are smiling. 
     The deal you struck was with God.  The delivery you made was the King.  The payment you receive is God's appreciation...the World's exultation!
     Christ is born!  The world is full of promise!  Imagine the possibilities!
     Imagine.....