By Donnie Stubblefield
“And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed.” Luke 2:1 (KJV)
Living in Illinois, we all know what it means to be taxed. BUT, could you imagine that to be taxed you had to travel 20 miles on the back of a donkey, while 34 weeks pregnant, through a desert climate! Mary and Joseph made that difficult trip to Bethlehem trusting God was in the journey. Mary was blessed to have that trust after the angel Gabriel shared that she was favored by God to be a blessing to the nations in carrying the Son of God. Joseph, though, was conflicted when Mary came back from visiting her cousin, sharing she was pregnant…by God’s Holy Spirit. Joseph was also visited by an angel of God to clarify the truth of Mary’s message. Joseph trusted God’s Word and walked in that truth. BUT, after an uncomfortable road trip, I am sure they were looking forward to a nice hotel to clean up and crash in. Instead, no vacancies or rooms anywhere, but one innkeeper offered a stable. The only space is a stable with a manger for feeding the animals. What a struggle, but somewhat a blessing to have place for the night. That blessing would seem to be short-lived when labor pains kicked in. Mary and Joseph persevered, and Jesus was born. Ten fingers, ten toes, and a healthy little boy wrapped in swaddling clothes for a new-born lamb.
“And it came to pass in those days….” These words are a great reminder during times of struggle. Mary and Joseph had both been visited by an angel. They both trusted God and believed in their hearts, but that did not stop the struggles. If you are going through struggles in your life, lean into the ten fingers of Christ. Know that you are loved and covered in His Grace. These days will come to pass as well.