And Joseph too went up from Galilee from the town of Nazareth to Judea, to the city of David that is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and family of David, to be enrolled with Mary, his betrothed, who was with child. Luke 2:4-5 NABRE
Joseph and Mary pregnant with Jesus are required to travel to Bethlehem, the town of Joseph’s ancestral family all the way back to King David, for a census. The Romans want the people counted likely for the purposes of taxes. It is a significant moment because the prophecy about the Messiah includes His coming from the town of Bethlehem, the city and the line of David. “But you, Bethlehem-Ephrathaha least among the clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler in Israel; whose origin is from of old, from ancient times.” (Micah 5:1) Roman Emperor Caesar Augustus is an instrument of God, assuring the prophecy is fulfilled and the birth of the Messiah happens in Bethlehem as planned. This passage in Luke mentions that Mary is Joseph’s betrothed, they are committed to one another though not husband and wife, affirming Mary’s virginal status. We read here obedience to God which is necessary to fulfill His plan. Two simple people, important to God and humanity are without power or pretense. God depends on those the world might look past to accomplish what is most important.
How often do we feel we are not powerful enough, popular enough, strong enough, intelligent enough or enough of anything else we think is needed to be useful for change or God. God shows over and over that it is simple obedient people who are needed to implement God’s plans for humanity. As Paul writes, “… God chose the foolish of the world to shame the wise, and God chose the weak of the world to shame the strong,” (1 Corinthians 1:27)
Are you obedient to God? Do you think God needs you?
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