Day 11: The Faith of Joseph and Mary
Scripture to meditate on: Luke 2:1-7 The Birth of Jesus in Bethlehem
In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. (This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.) And everyone went to their own town to register.
So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.
Devotional:
In this passage, Mary and Joseph set out on a 90 mile journey to Bethlehem due to a governmental census decree. The imminent arrival of the blessed child adds a layer of significance to their pilgrimage. Arriving in Bethlehem, they encounter a bustling town with no available lodging, forcing them into the humility of a stable.
It is within these humble surroundings that the Son of God is born, gracing the world with His presence. Once again, this event serves as a poignant reminder that divine providence often unfolds in unexpected and unassuming places.
The birth of Jesus in such modest circumstances underscores the beauty of simplicity and the sovereignty of God’s plan. May this narrative inspire us to recognize the sacred within the ordinary and to embrace the divine timing that orchestrates our lives.
Questions to ponder:
- What does this passage say about God?
- What does this passage say about me or my relationships?
- What should I do in light of this passage?
