Thursday, May 23, 2013
TEXT: LUKE 2:1-7
Key Verse : “And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn” (Luke 2:7).
Joseph and Mary thought it necessary to join others to fulfill a civic responsibility of participating in census. Christ and His disciples fulfilled a similar obligations by paying taxes (Matthew 17). The family in our text was aware of the place of taxation in the administration of a state; hence, their decision to heed Caesar Augustus’ decree in this regard. Obedience always brings blessing even though it may cause temporary inconveniences. Mary was getting to the point of delivery, yet that did not hinder them from obeying the decree. It was during the journey that Jesus was born.
This is a challenge to all believers today. There are those who still evade census and payment of taxes, although they make a lot of money from their businesses. To be a true Christian, every believer must obey the necessary laws of the land. The birth of Jesus in a manger also speaks volumes about the modesty of His background, though He is the Lord.
We should take a cue from the life of the patriarchs who, though rich in all things, opted to live in tents and camps as pilgrims and strangers on earth. Our primary goal in life therefore must be to be a part of that heavenly city whose Builder and Maker is God.
Thought for the Day : “Obey them that have the rule over you”.