Devotional

A Crossroads in History

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. -Luke 2:4

In a poignant, soul-stirring way, it is interesting to watch the management of our sovereign God as He makes Bethlehem a crossroads of human history. He moves the Emperor of Rome to pass an edict which will result in Joseph’s return to his family’s hometown, and, thereby, Jesus will be born in Bethlehem. He moves the stars and planets to a unique convergence which will prompt a group of eastern wise men to study this phenomenon in conjunction with ancient Scriptures and come to worship at Bethlehem. He arranges for a crowded inn, so that His Son, forced to be birthed in a stable, will never be accused of having been advantaged through “high” birth.

None of these things happened by accident. They were arranged, strategized, and executed by the God of the universe. As we come back to Bethlehem this Christmas, it is wise for us to think on these things. In doing so, remember that He’s equally interested in assuring the success of things in your life.

Luke