Luke 2:1-7 — “And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed…” Rome was a long way from Nazareth, and yet when Joseph and Mary became aware of Caesar’s decree they felt obligated to obey. Even though Mary was heavily pregnant and the journey involved significant risks for mother and child, the family set-off to Bethlehem in order to be registered.
This says something about the immense power that Caesar wielded, however, when we think about the Christmas story, we see a greater power at work, and this is very encouraging! This has been a disrupted and difficult year for many of us and so it’s good to be reminded of who really is in charge of this world, and that He is bringing to pass His good plans.