Barbara N. Stewart

Bethlehem's Cry Barbara N. Stewart

Bethlehem, City of David, is a town of no significance until the census ordered by Caesar Augustus forces hundreds to descend on it. Step back in time and follow the simple lives of Thaddeus and Kezia, who live on the outskirts of Bethlehem, and their children as they herd sheep; Gedaliah and Deborah as they operate one of the inns in town and start a family; Helah and Rufus as they begin their life together; Mary and Joseph as they arrive, have a baby, and settle in the town -- all within the shadow of strict Roman rule. With the arrival of wealthy foreigners, their world is turned upside down in a wave of violence ordered by King Herod. This is a fresh breath to a story that we love dearly -- one that ultimately leads to the foot of the cross where healing and restoration take place.