FRIDAY December 23, 2022

The Journey to 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

I am amazed, because no matter how many times we read the Christmas Story, it gets better and better. Luke gave us the historical setting for Christ’s birth. Israel during this period was under Roman rule.

A decree went out from Caesar Augustus, also known as Octavian, who came to power after the assassination of Julius Caesar––that all the world should be registered. This referred to all the nations that Rome was governing. The census took place while Quirinius was governing Syria (Luke 2:1-2). Some scholars believe that this census was ordered so taxes could be extracted from the people, making it a time of oppression.

Joseph and Mary prepared for the journey and left Galilee to travel to Judea, to the city of David––Bethlehem. The city’s name Bethlehem means “house of bread.” Imagine how difficult and harsh this journey must have been for Mary, as she was nearing the time of her Baby’s birth. Mary was described as being “great with child” (Luke 2:5 KJV).

Joseph and Mary went about 90 miles over the rough and rugged terrain, trusting God for the outcome of the journey, and believing He was with them––leading them. Bethlehem was the place where Jesus would be born. The prophet Micah, hundreds of years prior, and with absolute accuracy, gave a prophecy about Jesus’ 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).

Everything was aligning with the plans and purposes of God. In our lives this also holds true. No matter the journey ahead of you, trust God for the outcome, knowing He works all things out for your good.

And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.
~Romans 8:28~

For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!