H what a beautiful morning. In the quiet village of Nazareth, two hearts dreamed simple dreams, unaware of the extraordinary destiny that awaited them. >> Huh?
>> Here you go, Eli. Take this. Thank you, Mary.
You're always so nice. >> You're very welcome. Be careful on your way home.
>> I will. >> H I wonder what Joseph is up to. >> H >> good morning, Joseph.
>> Ow. Uh good morning, Mary. That looks wonderful.
Is it for the festival? >> Oh, this. Yes.
I thought the children might enjoy it. >> How thoughtful of you, as you always are. >> Well, I better be going now.
See you around. I must be the luckiest man in Nazareth. [Music] Thank you, Lord, for the blessings of this day and for the kindness of our neighbors.
Watch over Joseph and guide us in your ways. [Music] >> Greetings, favored one. The Lord is with you.
>> Who Who are you? >> Do not be afraid, Mary. I am Gabriel, a messenger of God.
You have found favor with him. >> Of God? What does he ask of me?
You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus. He will be great and will be called the son of the most high. His kingdom will never end.
>> But how can this be? Since I am not yet married, >> the Holy Spirit will come upon you and the power of the most high will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the son of God.
Even your cousin Elizabeth is expecting a child in her old age. For nothing is impossible with God. I am the Lord's servant.
May everything you have said about me come true. >> May peace be with you, Mary. >> Elizabeth, I must go see her.
[Music] And so with faith and courage, Mary's extraordinary journey began. A path that would change her life and the world forever. [Music] H.
Could it be Elizabeth? >> Mary, is that you? >> Yes, it's me.
I've come all this way to see you. >> Oh, Mary, the moment I heard your greeting, the baby within me leaped for joy. >> Truly, then it's all true.
Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear. How honored am I that the mother of my Lord should come to me. My heart is soaring, lifted to the spirit dances as I realize that I've been chosen for a destiny to bring forth hope for all to see.
Oh, blessed be my soul today. For the mighty one has shown the way. Great things he's done.
Holy is his name. Forever and ever. His love will rain.
His mercy flows like a river wide on those who trust him and abide. He scatters pride and brings down kings but lifts the lowly on eagle's wings. Oh, blessed be my soul today.
For the mighty one has shown the way. Great things he's done. Holy is his name.
Forever and ever his love will reign. [Music] He fills the hungry with finest things. The rich depart with empty rings.
He holds his promise forever true just as he spoke to me and you. Oh, blessed be my soul today. For the mighty one has shown the way.
Great things he's done. Holy is his name. Forever and ever his love will rain.
Forever and ever. His love will rain. [Laughter] Mary stayed with Elizabeth for 3 months, a time of mutual support and shared joy as they prepared for the roles they were destined to fulfill.
[Music] Zechariah still can't say a word, but his eyes speak volumes. He's been writing everything down. Our home is filled with his notes.
[Laughter] I can only imagine. And how are you feeling, Elizabeth? Grateful and a bit tired, but every moment is a blessing.
And you, Mary, how are you holding up with all this wonder? >> At times it feels overwhelming, but then I remember that we're part of a greater plan. It brings me peace.
>> You are wise beyond your years. Remember Mary, you are never alone on this journey. >> Elizabeth, I must return to Nazareth.
Joseph must be wondering about me. >> Go with God, dear Mary. We'll see each other again soon.
I'm sure of it. >> Thank you for everything. >> May the Lord bless and protect you.
[Music] Mary, welcome back. How was your visit with Elizabeth? >> Good day, Gideon.
It was wonderful. Thank you. >> Mary >> H.
>> Mary. >> Sarah, >> you were gone for so long. I missed you.
>> I missed you too, Sarah, very, very much. I know someone who has missed you even more. He has been so sad.
>> Really? And who might this be? >> I can't tell you.
It's a secret. >> H could it be Joseph? >> Well, I'll better go see for myself then.
[Music] I'm the luckiest man in Nazareth. >> Hello, Joseph. >> Mary, you're back.
You're actually back. >> Careful now. We can't have our best carpenter getting injured again.
>> Oh, sorry. Guess I'm a bit more excited than I realized. So, how was your journey?
How is Elizabeth? >> It was incredible, Joseph. Elizabeth is expecting a son.
Can you believe it? She's overjoyed. Truly, that's wonderful news.
It's certainly a time of miracles. >> Um, speaking of miracles, there's something I need to tell you. >> Um, of course.
Let's sit down. >> Something extraordinary happened. An angel of the Lord appeared to me.
>> An angel? >> He told me that I have been chosen by God to bear a son. Not just any son, but the Messiah.
He said we are to name him Jesus. >> Mary, that's that's quite a message. Are you certain about this?
>> I know it sounds unbelievable, but I feel it in my heart. I am with child, Joseph. It's a miracle beyond understanding.
>> Um, I Oh, no. Joseph, please talk to me. >> Mary, this is so much to take in.
I want to believe you, but I don't understand. How can this be? >> I don't fully understand it myself.
But I have faith that God has a plan for us. I need you by my side. >> I I need some time to think.
>> I understand. I'll be praying for guidance. Joseph, no matter what happens, please know that I care for you deeply.
[Music] Confusion and doubt clouded Joseph's mind. The path ahead seemed uncertain and his heart wrestled with what to do. [Music] God, I don't know what to do.
I care for Mary, but this news, it's overwhelming. Please, God, just give me a sign. [Music] Joseph, son of David.
Huh? >> Who Who are you? What is this place?
>> Do not be afraid, Joseph. I am a messenger of the Lord. >> A messenger?
Why have you come to me? >> The Lord knows the doubts that weigh upon your heart. Do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife.
But Mary, she's with child. I don't understand how this could be. >> What is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit.
>> So it's true. She she carries a holy child. >> Yes, she will give birth to a son, and you are to name him Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.
>> But how can I, a simple carpenter, be a father to the son of God? I'm not worthy of such an honor. >> The Lord looks not at status, but at the heart.
You are chosen because of your righteousness and compassion. I've always tried to live a just life, but this it's so much more than I could have imagined. >> Have faith, Joseph.
The road will not be easy, but you will not walk it alone. The Lord will guide you. >> But what should I do when others question us?
How can I shield Mary from shame? >> Walk with integrity and trust in God's plan. The truth will reveal itself in time.
For now, go forth with courage. >> I will do as the Lord commands. I will stand by Mary and protect her and the child.
>> Blessed are you among men. Your name will be remembered for generations to come. >> Thank you.
Your words have have eased my heart. >> Peace be with you, Joseph. Remember the Lord is with you always.
Wait, will I see you again? Have faith. >> Mary, Mary, >> Joseph.
Mary, I need to speak with you. >> Of course. Is everything all right?
>> I had a dream, a vision. An angel appeared to me confirming everything you told me. >> Truly.
>> Please forgive my doubt. I believe you and I want to be there for you, for both of you. Will you still have me by your side?
>> Yes, of course. I never doubted you. And so with hearts united and faith strengthened, Mary and Joseph embraced the path laid before them, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.
[Music] Apples. Apples. The best tasting apples in Nazareth.
>> Goats. sheep. Small ones, big ones.
Extra good offer on this old thing. Only today. >> What do you think of this one?
Do you like the color? >> Mhm. [Music] >> Look, Joseph, fresh dates.
Should we get some for our dinner? >> Ooh, absolutely. I can never resist your date cakes.
Can we get two bags of dates, please? >> Of course, Joseph. Coming right up.
And one extra bag for free for your pregnant lady. >> Thank you, Ezekiel. You're >> Huh?
H. [Music] It's the romance. [Music] >> Out of the way, you filthy animal.
Rome has no time for weaklings like you. >> Oh, wow. >> What are you doing?
Please, sir, do something. They're stealing my goats. >> Hold your tongue, Hebrew, unless you want trouble.
I heard that Romans eat for free. [Music] >> Why are they here? >> These Romans, they think they own us.
>> Jacob, our taxes. Did you pay them? Did you?
[Music] Silence. [Laughter] >> By decree of Caesar Augustus, a census shall be taken of the entire Roman world. Are they really expecting everyone to leave home?
>> All must return to their ancestral towns to be registered and taxed accordingly. This is mandatory and shall commence immediately. >> That means I'll need to return to Bethlehem.
It's where my family's from. >> Bethlehem? That's quite a journey, especially now.
Ah, Joseph, Mary, looks like we all have some traveling ahead of us. >> Indeed, Simon. But are you prepared for such a trip?
>> As ready as these old bones will ever be. But you two, it's a long road. And Mary, you're expecting.
Will you be all right? >> We have faith that we'll be taken care of. But thank you for your concern, Simon.
>> Very well. If you say so, I'll be praying for you, all three of you. >> Thank you, Simon.
And good luck to you, too. Be careful. Mary, perhaps it's best if I go alone to register.
You should stay here where it's safe. >> We're in this together, Joseph. Besides, the child is due soon.
I want us to be together when the time comes. I should know better than to argue with you. >> Yes, you should.
>> Then let's prepare for the journey. We'll leave as soon as possible to give ourselves plenty of time. >> Agreed.
I'll start packing our essentials and I'll bake some of those date cakes for the road. >> Sounds like a plan. And so with hearts full of hope and a touch of excitement, Mary and Joseph prepared to embark on their journey, unaware of the extraordinary events that awaited them in Bethlehem.
Well, old friend, it's going to be quite the trip. I hope you're ready for the road ahead. Don't worry, we'll take it slow.
Just you, me, and Mary. Together, we'll make it to Bethlehem. >> Lord, guide our steps and keep us safe.
Thank you for the blessings you've given us. >> Well, I think that's everything. How does that feel, Reuben?
Not too heavy. >> Thank you so much, Reuben. We couldn't make this journey without you.
>> All right, then. Bethlehem. Ready or not, here we come.
[Music] See that cliff over there? I remember climbing it as a boy. Thought I could touch the clouds from the top.
>> Did you succeed? >> Not quite, but I did get a spectacular view of the valley. [Music] Mary, we need to hurry and find cover before it gets worse.
>> Get back. Don't come any closer. Please Lord send your angel and protect us.
[Music] >> Joseph, perhaps we should rest again soon. >> We're getting close, but you're right. Maybe a short break wouldn't hurt.
>> Look, Joseph, there it is. Bethlehem. We're almost there.
>> I wonder what awaits us there. >> Whatever it is, we'll face it together. [Music] Stay close, Mary.
It's quite busy. [Applause] Joseph, it looks like many others had the same idea. >> Don't worry, we'll find a place.
[Music] Can't you people read? The sign says we're full. Sorry, we're full and you don't look like you could afford it anyways.
>> Good evening, sir. We seek a room for the night. My wife is >> God help me.
For the hundth time, we are full. >> Sorry for disturbing you this late, sir. We're looking >> We're full and you should clean yourself up if you want to find somewhere to stay.
>> Good evening, sir. We're looking for a place to stay for the night. I'm expecting our child soon, and this is the only inn we haven't tried yet.
>> I'm truly sorry, but we're completely full. The census has every room occupied. >> We understand.
Thank you for your time. [Music] >> Wait a moment. There is a couple right outside of town.
They are very kind and hospitable. You should try there. Just keep walking forward and you won't miss it.
>> Thank you, sir. We'll do that. [Music] >> This must be it.
Last chance. [Music] >> Huh? Hello.
Is Is your father or mother home right now? >> Mhm. One moment.
>> Dad, there's someone at the door. >> Hello there. How can I help you?
>> Sir, we've come a long way from Nazareth. My wife is expecting our child very soon. We desperately need a place to stay tonight.
I wish I could help you, but all my rooms are occupied. Not even a corner left. >> Please.
We've tried everywhere else. Is there anything at all? Even a small space?
>> I'm sorry, >> dear. Perhaps the stable. >> The stable.
It's not much, but it's warm and dry. >> We would be grateful for any shelter. Very well.
Follow me. [Music] [Music] Here, dear. Some fresh linens and blankets.
We'll bring you some hot water and food. Thank you both so much. You've been very kind.
>> Oh, it's the least we can do. Let us know if you need anything else. >> Oh, sorry, Reuben.
I'll get that off you. >> It's humble, but it has a certain charm, doesn't it? >> It does.
And we're together. That's what matters. [Music] Thank you for everything, Reuben.
You can rest now. [Music] How are you feeling now? >> At peace.
I think we were meant to be here. >> Joseph, it's time. >> I'm here, Mary.
You're not alone. And so on this silent night, hope entered the world in the most humble of places. A gift of love destined to bring light to all.
Did I ever tell you about the time a lion tried to snatch one of my sheep? >> Only a hundred times. And each time the lion gets bigger.
>> Next thing we know, it'll be a dragon. >> Fine. I'll never tell you a story again.
>> Thank god. Hm. The stars are especially bright tonight.
>> Indeed they are. Seems like they're celebrating something. What is that?
[Music] Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people today in the city of David. A savior has been born to you.
He is Christ the Lord. >> A savior born here in Bethlehem. >> Yes, you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling clothes lying in a manger.
Glory to God in the highest heaven and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests. Glory to God in the highest heaven and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests. Glory to God in the highest heaven and on earth peace to those on whom his fa rests.
Glory to God in the highest heaven and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rest on earth peace to those on whom his favor. >> Can can this truly be happening in theest? It's a miracle >> on earth to those on his glory to God in the highest heaven and on earth peace to those on whom his favor.
>> We must go to Bethlehem and see this child the Lord has told us about. Yes. >> Let's hurry and go at once.
Glory to God in the highest heaven. And on earth peace to those on whom his favor rest. And on earth peace to those on whom his favor rest.
He's perfect. Welcome to the world, Jesus. [Music] >> Are you sure this is it?
This old stable? I'm sure the star led us here. >> Easy there.
Peace be with you. Can I help you? >> Forgive us for disturbing you at this late hour.
We were guided here by a star and a message from angels. Angels, >> please come inside. [Music] >> It's just as they said, a child wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger.
We brought gifts. They're humble, but we offer them with all our hearts. It's one of my favorite flutes.
>> Thank you. Your kindness means so much to us. >> Fresh milk and honey to help you regain your strength.
>> You're most generous. Please make yourselves comfortable. >> Here's something for you too, donkey.
The angels told us that this child is the Savior, Christ the Lord. He is a blessing to us all. [Music] Sleep holy child, rest your eyes underneath the starry skies.
[Music] Angels guard you from above. wrapped in everlasting love. [Music] Hush little one, do not fear.
Heaven's light is shining near. Stars will twinkle while you rest. [Music] Held against your mother's chest.
>> The star shone brighter and brighter. And then the angel appeared to us. >> And then the angel told us, "Do not be afraid.
It was beautiful. Hundreds of angels appeared and sang together. >> And Eli started crying.
>> I did not [Music] gazing on the Lord of love. [Music] Yay! In this humble stable, strangers became friends, united by the wonder of a promise fulfilled.
[Music] Gentlemen, the night is unusually still. Can you feel it? >> Indeed, there's a sense of anticipation in the air, as if the very heavens are holding their breath.
>> Look there [Music] by the heavens. Such a star can only herald one thing, the fulfillment of the prophecy. A new king is born.
