“In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree
that a census should be taken
of the entire Roman world”
(Luke 2:1)
Reflection:
Caesar Augustus reigned over the Roman empire from 30 BC to AD 14. He decided that a census should be taken throughout his empire. This was not a regular occurrence but the first of its kind – and taxation was probably the reason behind it. The consequence was that people travelled to their own town to register, and this involved Joseph going to Bethlehem, ‘because he was of the house and line of David.’
Joseph did not need to take Mary with him but he obviously decided or agreed to do so. We know that she was in the advanced stages of her pregnancy and he may not have wanted to leave her behind in view of the Lord’s commission to him.
These two men were both involved in Mary’s being in Bethlehem when Jesus was born there – just as the prophet had foretold.
- “But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times” (Micah 5:2)
Caesar, who would not have known of the prophecy or of Mary and Joseph, issued a decree that had to be obeyed. Joseph, as a husband, took the decision that Mary should accompany him. In this way the prophecy was fulfilled and God’s will achieved.
In just such seemingly unrelated and small details is the hand of God at times to be revealed. He is indeed able to direct the thoughts and decisions of people in order to achieve His will, and He is able to work in all things to the good of those who love Him and who have been called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28)
Question:
Can I discern the Lord’s working in my life?
Response:
Trust God to guide and lead you in the way that you should go (Psalm 32:8)
Prayer:
Lord please have Your hand on my life so that whether I am aware of it or not I will live and act as You wish, Amen.
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The Soaring Eagle 