SUNDAY December 22, 2019
Oh Little Town of Bethlehem
Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child.
Luke 2:4-5
Under the Roman rule of Caesar Augustus, a decree was issued that the known world should be registered. This census took place while Quirinius was governing Syria (Luke 2:1-3). Some scholars believe that this was ordered for the taxation of the people. Joseph left Galilee with Mary, to travel to Judea, to the city of David––Bethlehem, meaning, “the house of bread.”
Joseph and Mary traveled more than 90 miles over the rough and rugged terrain. Imagine how difficult and harsh this journey must have been for Mary. She was near the time of giving birth to her Son. Mary was described as being “great with child” (Luke 2:5 KJV). Yet Joseph and Mary trusted God for the outcome of the journey, believing all He had clearly spoken to them.
This difficult journey to Bethlehem was all part of God’s perfect plan. Bethlehem was where Jesus would be born. The prophet Micah, with pinpoint accuracy, gave a prophecy concerning His birthplace:
“But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of you shall come forth to Me the One to be Ruler in Israel, whose goings forth are from of old, from everlasting” (Micah 5:2).
It is good to realize that sometimes God will allow difficult situations to happen in your life. It is important to fully trust the Lord and believe His Word spoken to you. No matter the journey God may have ahead of you, through obedience and submission to His plan, your faith will grow stronger.
We cannot always trace God’s hand but we can always trust God’s heart.
~Charles Spurgeon~
For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!