"In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. (This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria). And everyone went to his own town to register. So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn." Luke 2: 1 - 7
This passage seems very historical and unnessecary but there is a reason - it was prophesied long ago that the Messiah would be born in Bethlehem. During that time, the Roman Empire was reorganizing their administration and needed to perform new censuses for the purpose of taxation. It is because of that census that Jesus, our Lord and Savior was born in Bethlehem - just as it was prophesied. God had a purpose for everything in Joseph & Mary's life and our Heavenly Father also has a reason for everything that happens in our lives.
In these verses it implies that Joseph and Mary were not yet married. I had to look this up in my Bible Commentary and it states that the fact that Joseph and Mary travelled together proves that they were married (but had not consummated the marriage).
Verse 7 is the most precious verse - "she wrapped him in cloths and layed him in a manger" - a priceless gift - our Lord and Savior born in human form to save us forever.
I praise you and thank you Lord God Almighty for sending us your Son!
Advent Wreath
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| Three candles have been lit on the Advent Wreath |
Now turn with me to number 110 in your hymnals and let's sing:
Away In a Manger by Martin Luther, 1483-1546 composed by Carl Mueller 1. Away in a manger, no crib for a bed, The little Lord Jesus laid down His sweet head. The stars in the sky looked down where He lay, The little Lord Jesus, asleep on the hay. 2.The cattle are lowing, the Baby awakes, But little Lord Jesus, no crying He makes. I love Thee, Lord Jesus, look down from the sky, And stay by my cradle till morning is nigh. 3. Be near me, Lord Jesus, I ask Thee to stay Close by me for ever, and love me, I pray. Bless all the dear children in Thy tender care, And fit us for heaven to live with Thee there. _______________________________________________________________________________ Please listen to the video below - Nat King Cole's version of this beautiful Christmas hymn is amazing!
A special thanks to "SpecialCharm15" for posting this song on YouTube
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