Luke 2:4,5 “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:) To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.”
Many years ago, around this time of year, two people – a married couple, set out for Bethlehem. They did not have much, but the wife, Mary, was very much pregnant with baby Jesus.
Although people often assume she rode a donkey, which would have made the journey more comfortable for her, no such animal is mentioned in the Biblical account. The Roman emperor ordered that everyone must report to the city of their birth for tax purposes, and so, they headed toward Bethlehem, the city of David.
She was carrying a very Special Baby. As prophesied in Isaiah 7:14, He had no earthly father. He had always existed in Heaven with the Father (John 1:1). Although Mary was married to Joseph, the Baby was not his, because he had not yet consummated the marriage (Matthew 1:25). This special Child’s coming was announced by an angel to Mary as the “Son of the Highest” (Luke 1:32) and the “Son of God” (Luke 1:35).
Because the distance was about 90 miles from Nazareth to Bethlehem, their journey took several days. They probably stopped at several inns along the way before arriving at their destination.
Every believer today is also on a journey. Not for salvation, because it is a free gift through what Jesus Christ did for us on the Cross. We have been redeemed. It all began on this trip of Mary and Joseph.
How we need to keep in mind the real purpose of Christmas and not forget what the holiday is all about during this festive and busy season. Our journey is to glory, but there are a few battles along the way and an enemy seeking to stop us from living for our Redeemer.
Heaven intervened for us and God chose not to let us perish in our sin. Are we thankful and giving Him the honor He deserves during this season?