Abiding in ChristmasSample

"Abiding in Christmas: Daily Advent Thoughts" by Bryan Craig

DAY TWENTY-ONE

In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. This was the first registration when Quirinius was governor of Syria. And all went to be registered, each to his own town. 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, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed, who was with child. And while they were there, the time came for her to give birth. And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn. (Luke 2:1-7 ESV)

We’ve been reading many Old Testament passages that make it clear that this coming King was going to come out of the line of David and that He would be born in Bethlehem. Interesting that right as it was time for Jesus to be born, it was also time for Joseph to go to Bethlehem to be registered in the census. Coincidence? I think not. It is amazing how God is the great orchestrator of our lives, making sure we are in the places we need to be at the right time. This was a very important birth record, for sure, and God needed His plans followed so that all would know that the Messiah was here. Of course, God found two faithful servants in Mary and Joseph, who were obedient every step of the way. Lastly, it should be noted that our King Jesus was not born in a palace or even an inn, but a barn. What an exclamation point that this was a king for ALL people.

APPLICATION: As you look back on your life, can you see where God was orchestrating your steps, your plans, whether it be a college choice, a job, a mate? Can you think of times when you were not seeking Him, but He was still guiding your circumstances? Is there something He is prompting now which requires your obedience? Praise Him for His faithfulness, and trust Him for your next steps.