Esau, Traveling Shepherd 54022 - Fontanini 5" Centennial Collection. Figure includes story card and gift box. Polymer. Our Low House Of Fontanini Direct Price: $19.50.

The story according to Roman and entered by our Own Carol Baldini

The story of

ESAU

Esau had never seen Bethlehem’s inn so busy. Caesar’s census decreed that everyone registered in the city of one’s ancestors. It appeared that Bethlehem had been the starting point of many families from the number of travelers seeking lodging.

Donkeys, ox carts and camels crowded the courtyard of the inn, waiting for their masters to settle the reckoning. Esau led the animals of the new guests into the spacious stable, where he fed and watered them. From dawn to late lantern-light he curried coats, cleaned stalls, fetched harnesses and saddle blankets.

On this windy winter morning he noticed a little donkey tethered to an iron ring on the courtyard wall, Walking to the courtyard entrance, he saw the innkeeper thanking a couple getting ready to depart.

“Leaving today, sir?” Esau asked the husband. The bearded man nodded. “I just wanted to say good luck. I wish the quarters could have been better for you and your wife and the little one.”

“We managed with God’s help,” smiled the man’s young wife, emerging from the entrance with her baby tucked in swaddling clothes. She looked lovingly at the infant. “I hope we did not trouble you too much by having him sleep in the manger.”

“Oh no ma’am, it was no trouble. The animals were just as happy to be fed individually. And speaking of feeding, sir,” Esau turned to the husband, “your donkey ought to be in fine shape for the return journey. I gave him a special grain for strength and endurance-it’s something my grandfather taught me.”

“No wonder he looks so content,” the man laughed. He extended his hand. “Thank you, y friend for this all your kindness during your stay.”

“You’re welcome sir. Have a safe journey ma’am, and you too, little one. Shalom.”

“Shalom,” the couple replied. They walked over to their donkey. Esau waved and watched as the family set out along the road.