In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. 2 This was the first registration when Quirinius was governor of Syria. 3 And all went to be registered, each to his own town. 4 And Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the town of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, 5 to be registered with Mary, his betrothed, who was with child (Luke 2:1-5).
The ninety plus mile journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem was almost complete. There was no doubt that Mary was ready to give birth. At this point, the traveling probably slowed because of the numerous stops for Mary to rest. It is still almost impossible for me to wrap my arms around the idea that Mary was carrying the Messiah in her womb. Can you imagine the anxiety that she felt? Can you imagine all the thoughts going through her mind? What about Joseph? I remember what it was like for me to be a father for the first time. I was terrified when then sent our two-day-old baby home with us. Terrified! I’m sure Joseph’s mind was racing as well.
It was important for Mary to be with Joseph as they traveled to Bethlehem. Both Mary and Joseph understood that the Messiah would be born in Bethlehem. Joseph knew that Jesus would most likely be born while he was away in Bethlehem, so that is why Mary was with him. I’m confident they both understood the prophecy from Micah. Thus, Mary was with Joseph.
But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah, who are too little to be among the clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler in Israel, whose coming forth is from of old, from ancient days (Micah 5:2).
Isn’t it interesting how God orchestrates events in our lives to place us where we need to be in order to fulfill His will for our lives? Neither Mary nor Joseph anticipated a visit from the angels. Nor did they anticipate the news the angels would bring them about the Messiah. They certainly didn’t anticipate a ninety plus mile journey to Bethlehem just days before Mary delivered. But, do you know who did? God did. God orchestrated events in such a way that His purpose prevailed. Jesus would be born in Bethlehem……prophecy fulfilled!
What about your life? Do you ever just sit and think about how God orchestrates events in your life to fulfill His purpose? It really goes back to your view of God. If you have a high view of God and understand His sovereignty in your life, you will certainly identify those significant moments in your life when He led you in directions to fulfill His purpose. How is He leading you today? How is He leading you this Christmas season? Pray that God would reveal those meaningful times when He arranged events in your life to fulfill His purpose!
Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the LORD that will stand (Proverbs 19:21).