Table of Contents
Acknowledgments 11
Bible Versions 12
Introduction 13
1 Unexpected Interruptions: The Angel's Arrival 19
2 Blessedness Redefined: A Trip to the Hill Country 35
3 Rough Journeys: Pregnant, on a Donkey, Really? 50
4 Life in the Barn: The Birth of a Savior 61
5 Embracing Mystery: Pondering the Shepherds' Visit 74
6 The Soul-Piercing Sword: Simeon's Blessing 88
7 Running in the Dark: The Trip to Egypt 102
8 Not Why but Who: The Search for a Son 120
9 The Fine Art of Waiting: Water and Wine 139
10 God, Have You Lost Your Mind? Jesus' Family Takes Charge 156
11 When Nightmares Come True: Jesus' Arrest, Beating, and Sentence 173
12 He Still Cares: John's New Job 190
13 In the Dark: At the Foot of the Cress 204
14 Breaking and Remaking: It Is Finished 218
15 A Shocking Transformation: Resurrection 232
16 The Wonder of His Love: Pentecost 248
17 Eyewitness and Servant: Mary Tells Her Story 261
Author Note 267
Sources 269
