And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:) — Luke 2:4

Let’s travel with Joseph and Mary over the next few days as they experience the amazing grace of God. These verses tell us the basics: they moved south from where they lived, went to Bethlehem, which was King David’s city, were engaged but not yet married, Mary was pregnant, and they were going there to register with the Roman government. Between the lines of this simple story are hints of intrigue and scandal. With the connection, there is a strong sense of promise and fulfillment. In the middle of a storm, faithfulness is shown. With a Roman census, people can understand what was going on in history at the time. Scandal, promise, loyalty, and history all come together. Jesus comes into our world in a place that is a lot like where we are—a place with hope and dreams, but also with scandal and disappointment. He will be the Messiah for some people. Before he is even born, we already know. It makes us like and love him even more. God chose to come into our world as one of us, not as a perfect alien from another world. We can reach and follow this Messiah. Jesus is just like us.

 

Thought

Let’s travel with Joseph and Mary over the next few days as they experience the amazing grace of God. These verses tell us the basics: they moved south from where they lived, went to Bethlehem, which was King David’s city, were engaged but not yet married, Mary was pregnant, and they were going there to register with the Roman government. Between the lines of this simple story are hints of intrigue and scandal. With the connection, there is a strong sense of promise and fulfillment. In the middle of a storm, faithfulness is shown. With a Roman census, people can understand what was going on in history at the time. Scandal, promise, loyalty, and history all come together. Jesus comes into our world in a place that is a lot like where we are—a place with hope and dreams, but also with scandal and disappointment. He will be the Messiah for some people. Before he is even born, we already know. It makes us like and love him even more. God chose to come into our world as one of us, not as a perfect alien from another world. We can reach and follow this Messiah. Jesus is just like us.

 

Prayer

God, thank you for giving us Jesus. You are holy and kind. Thank you that he came into our confusing, contradictory, and troubled world. Thank you for not being far away or not caring about our problems. In Jesus’ precious name I pray. Amen.