Luke 2:1-6 “In those days a decree went out from Emperor Augustus that all the world should be registered. This was the first registration and was taken while Quirinius was governor of Syria. All went to their own towns to be registered. Joseph also went from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to the city of David called Bethlehem, because he was descended from the house and family of David. He went to be registered with Mary, to whom he was engaged and who was expecting a child.”  

The sun is just beginning to break through the darkness outside, but if we are going to make it in time, we have to leave now. 
 
“Mary, do you have everything ready? It is time to head out. The donkey is right outside, and I have our bags.” 
 
At first, I couldn’t believe the timing. Dealing with the Romans is a constant challenge for all of us, but just when my wife is about to deliver her son, Augustus feels the need to count every head under his power. Seriously, why? I’ve been pacing the floor with worry and stress, trying to figure out how to safely get us to Bethlehem and back home before the baby arrives. What do I do with all the business orders that I haven’t finished? What about our home? How will Mary endure this trip in her condition? This entire region will be in chaos with people moving from place to place and all my little family wants to do is huddle together and welcome Jesus into our home. 
 
Then yesterday, a letter arrived from up north. Zechariah and Elizabeth sent us greetings. And there, hidden in plain sight amidst the stories of baby John and their prayers for us, Zechariah reminded me that You, O God, are still in control. Your hand is always with us. 

“Joseph and Mary, you have been chosen for such a grand design. You have been patiently awaiting the arrival of our Messiah, just as we have. Know that we are praying for you both. We know that this census feels like a problem to overcome but remember the words of the prophet and hold on to the message of your angel. Trust. Everything is in His hands. ‘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. Therefore, the Lord will give them up, until the time when she who is to give birth has borne, then the rest of his kindred shall return to the children of Israel. He shall take his place as shepherd by the strength of the LORD, by the majestic name of the LORD, his God; And they shall dwell securely, for now his greatness shall reach to the ends of the earth: he shall be peace.’ (Micah 5:1-4)
 
Suddenly, another piece of the plan fell into place and my mind relaxed. From the prophet Micah comes the reminder that even the Romans follow Your Will, O God, though they do not know it. Praise be to You! This is the reason. Peace will be born into this chaos. Bethlehem, the home of David, is my home. I am a descendant of our king, and this is where our King should be born. May all the prophecies of Micah be fulfilled! We will trust You with this trip, with this birth, with everything. 
 
I hear my beloved’s light footsteps and feel her hand on my shoulder. As I turn to smile at her, she says quietly, “Sorry to keep you waiting. Time to continue this adventure with our God.” She places her hand over her belly and smiles at me, “Jesus and I are ready.” 
 
Reflection Questions: Romans 8:28 says, “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.” Isn’t it interesting that God used even the Romans to fulfill His plan for our salvation? What lesson can that teach us today? Can we see that all the parts of our story are drawing us to Him? No matter the good, the bad, or the ugly, everything we experience ultimately leads us to Him, if we have eyes that are focused in His direction. Has this Advent brought clearer vision to you? 
 
Prayer: Jesus, I have been trying to prepare my heart to be ready for You during this Advent season. All the last-minute preparations are busy around me and yet, my heart wants to just stay and sit with You. Help me to find You in the chaos as we travel to Bethlehem together over the next couple of days. May I not get caught up in the stress of this season but stay close to You through it all. Bring Your peace. Amen.