Christmas Journey 04 Jericho to Bethlehem

After resting in Jericho, Joseph and Mary would have tackled the last leg of the journey, traveling the narrow path of Wadi Qelt until they reached Jerusalem or a road leading directly to Bethlehem that bypassed Jerusalem. Wadi Qelt has three water sources. No other way through the wilderness provided water for travelers. If Mary and Joseph traveled through Jericho on this journey, they definitely traveled along this path. Assuming they had one or more pack animals (Joseph was a carpenter and would have needed a donkey or two), the couple still may have walked most of the journey. The animals would have carried water and belongings. It also may have been more comfortable for Mary to walk than to ride during the last season of her pregnancy. It’s interesting to picture the young couple singing the “songs of ascent” as they made this climb. Psalm 121 is especially relevant. Consider reading or quoting it as your audience watches this footage of Wadi Qelt.