Luke 2: 1,2,3,4,5,6. A Roman census was taken to aid military conscription or tax collection. The Jews weren’t required to serve in the Roman army, but they could not avoid paying taxes. Augustus’s decree went out in God’s perfect timing and according to God s perfect plan to bring his Son into the world.
The Romans ruled the civilized world at this time. By contrast, Joseph controlled very little. Against his better judgment and political convictions, he complied with the Roman order to make a long trip just to pay his taxes. His fiancée, who had to go with him , was about to give birth. The Romans were in control insofar as human authority can get it’s way by exerting human power. But the Romans did not recognize their limitations. In reality, God controls the world. In all times and places, he works his will. By the decree of Emperor Augustus, Jesus was born in the very town prophesied for his birth (Micah 5:2) even though his parents did not live there. Joseph and Mary were both descendants of David. The Old Testament is filled with prophecies that the Messiah would be born in David’s royal line. Rome made the decree , just as God intended.
Sometimes we think to ourselves, I’m being obedient, so why aren’t things going better? We face discomfort or inconvenience and immediately think either that we have misread God’s will or that God has made a mistake. But watch that quiet couple as they head toward Bethlehem. God did not soften Joseph’s bumpy road, but strengthened him. God did not provide a luxurious inn for Joseph and Mary, but brought his son into the world in a humble surroundings. When we do God’s will , we are not guaranteed comfort and convenience. But we are promised that everything, even discomfort and inconvenience, has meaning in God’s plan. He will guide you and provide all you need. Like Joseph, live each day by Faith, trusting that God is in charge.
Luke 2:7. Bands of cloths were used to keep a baby warm and give it a sense of security. These cloths were believed to protect its internal organs. The custom of wrapping infants this way is still practiced in many Mid-eastern countries. This mention of a manger is the basis for the traditional belief that Jesus was born in a stable. Stables were often caves with feeding troughs carved into the rock walls. Despite popular Christmas card pictures, the surroundings were dark and dirty. This was not the atmosphere the Jews expected as the birth place of the Messiah King. They thought their promised Messiah would be born in royal surroundings. We should not limit God by our expectations. He is at work wherever he is needed in our sin-darkened and dirty world.
Although our first picture of Jesus is as a baby in a manger, it must not be our last. The Christ child in the manger is the subject of a beautiful Christmas scene, but we must not leave him there. This tiny, helpless baby lived an amazing life, died for us, ascended to heaven, and will return to earth as King of kings. Christ will rule the world and judge all people according to their decisions about him. Do you still picture Jesus as a baby in a manger, or is he your Lord? Make sure you don’t underestimate Jesus. Let him grow up in your life.
Jesus is more than a good teacher, he cares for you. because of his deep love, he can satisfy your needs.
image ref;acharn-ph.blogspot.com
GZ.
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