The Census

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We’ve all experienced the census taking of our time. Today they send out forms to each address and request every piece of information possible. They request more today than they did in Joseph and Mary’s time.

They had to travel a great distance to reach Bethlehem, King David’s ancient home; who Joseph was a descendant of. From Nazareth to Bethlehem was roughly 69 miles. It might as well had been a million miles away, because, they had to travel by animal.

I don’t know about you, but, in my current physical condition, I can barely walk two blocks and then I have to stop and rest. 69 miles on foot took a long time to travel. And scripture says that Mary is pregnant. Traveling and pregnancy, and nearing the time of birth. I suspect this was a rough trip.

Because Joseph and Mary were law abiding citizen they complied with this decree for the census. So, off they went. Scripture doesn’t give details of the daily journey. So, we have to speculate and read between the lines.

Joseph was betrothed to Mary. Because they were both visited by an Angel telling them of the birth of Jesus they were committed and God fearing people.

Who of you would be willing to trek across the country while pregnant knowing that this baby could be born anytime? Mary was afraid. I’m sure Joseph was a bit worried. None-the-less they trusted Yahweh to meet their needs.

Are you trusting Yahweh for your needs this Christmas season? Me? Yes, I trust Yahweh implicitly. I know without a doubt that all my needs will be met.

Comment your story and bless others and be blessed. You’re not in this alone.

Also, I want to wish all of you a very Merry Christmas!