The Seventh Day of Advent
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. Luke 2: 1-7
If God is our hope, why are we ever discouraged? Do we think our trials indicate God is not loving or in control? The story of Jesus’ birth tells us differently. Only God has power so great as to create all the circumstances of Jesus’ birth just as He said. Caesar Augustus’ military power appeared to control the census that took Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem. But only God’s universal power could create historic events so Jesus was born from the lineage of King David in Bethlehem, exactly as the inspired prophets declared centuries before.
History is not controlled by the strength of nations and power of leaders. This is our Father’s world and everything is designed and sustained by Him for a glorious purpose. Our lives are not controlled by random events and unpredictable circumstances. With loving precision God designs our lives with a purpose – that we would know Him and love Him. He sent Jesus into the world to demonstrate His unfailing love for you. This Christmas will you refocus your heart on God and His love for you in Jesus? Let Him be the focus of all your hopes.
For family discussion:
- When have you wondered if God loved you?
- What does God’s design in Jesus’ birth say about His purpose for your life?
- What adjustment will you make to refocus your heart on God’s love for you in Jesus?
Barbara Reaoch
This week’s Re:Verse passage is Matthew 1:18 – 2:12
