Day 38 · The Nativity Fast
The Road to Bethlehem
“Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to David’s city, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and family of David, to enrol himself with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him as wife, being pregnant.”Luke 2:4-5
Reflection
An emperor's census sent a pregnant young woman and her betrothed on a hard journey of several days to Bethlehem. Caesar Augustus thought he was counting his subjects; in fact the pieces of God's promise were moving into place, so that Christ would be born in David's town, as Micah had said. One of the hymns of Christmas Eve begins, “When Augustus reigned alone upon the earth, the polygarchy of men came to an end”: the rule of many came under one emperor just as the many false gods gave way to the one true God made man. Rulers make their plans; God is quietly working through them.
A prayer
Lord, you guided Mary and Joseph on the road to Bethlehem. Guide me through the journeys I did not choose. When the powers of this world push me where I would not go, let me trust that you are still keeping your promise. Amen.
Carry this with you
What unwanted journey are you on right now? Invite Christ to walk it with you.