A Difficult Journey
Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child. - Luke 2:4-5
Under the Roman rule of Caesar Augustus, a decree was issued that the known world should be registered. This census took place while Quirinius was governing Syria (Luke 2:1-3). Some believe that this was done for the taxation of the people. Joseph would have had to leave Galilee with Mary to travel to Judea, to the city of David––Bethlehem.
Imagine how difficult this harsh journey must have been for Mary. She was near the time of giving birth to her Son. She was described as being great with child (Luke 2:5 KJV). Joseph and Mary would have traveled about seventy miles over the rough and rugged terrain.
Yet they both believed what God had spoken to them and trusted Him for the outcome. This difficult journey was a part of God’s perfect plan; just as the Prophet Micah foretold:
“But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of you shall come forth to Me the One to be Ruler in Israel, Whose goings forth are from of old,
from everlasting - (Micah 5:2).
Sometimes, God will allow different situations in your life to happen. These events may take you on a difficult journey. It is important to stay committed to the Lord and believe His Word. Through your submission to His plans, even in the most arduous times, your faith will grow stronger.
Belief is not faith without evidence but commitment without reservation.
~Leighton Ford~
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