We have had a good year! No one could have predicted the way our entire world would change in a matter of just a few months. Each of us thinks that our circumstances are so unusual and have never happened before.

I have been thinking a lot about Mary, the mother of Jesus, and how she experienced so many parallels with us. She must have felt similar to how we feel. She reflects on this:

1. Shock: Imagine the shock when this teen found out she was pregnant and yet hadn’t been with a man. We too were shocked to hear that a pandemic would shut down the entire world for a period of time.

2. Confusion: Mary probably didn’t know what to do or how she would deal with the idea of ​​becoming a mother. She has not only confused us about COVID-19, but also the mixed messages we receive from the media, health officials, and loved ones about how to protect ourselves and others.

3. Conspiracy – Imagine how Mary was treated when she said that she was a virgin who was pregnant with the son of God. Many people have stated that there are conspiracies around the pandemic in its origin, risk levels, statistics and treatment.

4. Support – Joseph was the person who became the partner of Mary and the earthly father of Jesus and he too must have experienced some stress from others. Was he the subject of rumors and pressure from people who had alternative advice for him? Where were Maria’s mother and sisters? I bet he wished they were with her. During the pandemic we have had to find ways to connect with others through technology and remote interaction. Like Mary, many of our family members were also separated.

5. Legalities – Even though Mary was nearing the end of her pregnancy, the ruler required her and Joseph to travel to Bethlehem. They were required to register for the census and pay their taxes. Our governments could have made some revisions to the tax-related laws by deferring taxes, but we still needed to pay our taxes and also follow the new laws on quarantine, travel, and the economy.

6. Medical Care: There is no mention of Mary having a doctor, midwife, or other professional to help her deliver her firstborn. In fact, because there was no room at her inn, she was housed with the animals in a stable during her labor and delivery. Many parts of the world also have health care problems. Some faced a lack of protective gear, long lines waiting to be tested and no clear information on whether a vaccine will be available and effective in the near future.

7. Unknown – I’m sure Maria was wondering what would happen to Jose, her son, and herself. How far into her future could she see? All of us have also been wondering about the future. Will our countries open again? What will help the economy? Will there be food shortages? Can we trust that “this too shall pass” and that we will be better off in the future?

8. Faith – Mary trusted God. She followed the law by traveling to Bethlehem. She rusted up Joseph to help her. Every year we faithfully celebrate Christmas which is the birthday of that little baby that Maria was carrying. Do we have a strength of faith that even comes close to that of Mary?

We have already overcome several months of uncertainty due to COVID-19. Maybe it’s a good thing we didn’t know what was in store for us at the start of this.

And now we are facing a future that also has many unknowns. Will we face it with the love, peace and joy we talk about so much during the holidays?

I hope so.

Merry Christmas to all!