The Ninth Day of Christmas: In the Biblical accounts of Jesus' birth in the cave in Bethlehem, there is no mention of animals. Yet we know the cave was used as a stable because Mary "wrapped him in swaddling clothes and laid him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn" (Gospel of Luke 2: 7). A manger is a feeding trough for animals. Since the cave was associated with an inn, it probably was large, to hold the guests' donkeys. Perhaps there were oxen. The shepherds may have brought sheep and guard dogs with them. We can imagine the Wise Men leaving their tall camels outside. The heat of the animals kept the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph warm. There may have been birds in the rafters. What about cats - to take care of the mice?
When I get to heaven, Lord willing, I have plenty of questions to ask God. Or else I'll just look around to see if there are animals - pets, companions. I've told many a grieving family member or child whose pet has died, that I'm sure God is taking care of them.
An interesting piece of research information: pet dogs are good for a marriage. Perhaps the petting of dogs, and most of them definitely are 'high maintenance,' stimulates the desire for touching in spouses.
Praise you, Lord, for giving us such a wonderful variety of animals for our use!
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