Luke
2:1-19
Why is Caesar Augustus even mentioned by the Holy Spirit? He was
one of the worst heathen.
But it was through his doing that Jesus was born in Bethlehem.
He ruled the world and sent out a decree that the whole world should be counted and taxed.
He passed the law so that ultimately he could see how many people he ruled and how much
tax he could get. He knew nothing of spiritual things or God, yet God used him to get
Joseph and Mary to Bethlehem on time for the birth of the Child.
Before this decree Joseph and Mary lived in Nazereth preparing for
the arrival of the Child. But the Child had to be born in Bethlehem, for so was the
prophesy of old. Joseph would not do that 25h journey with his wife near to be delivered.
But because Caesar had spoken they had no option and had to go to Bethlehem.
When they arrived in Bethlehem there was no room in the inn and
they had to stay in the stable with the animals. However, they were oblivious to their
humble circumstances, being overjoyed at the arrival of the Child.
The angels in heaven too were overjoyed at this event - God
becoming man. We read that a great heavenly host, probably millions of angels, rejoiced
and praised God. This was God's day, and the angels could not keep silent but rejoiced
greatly.
See how the angels were deeply moved at this event while some
people are ignorant of it.
This is a matter of great joy that He was born as the Saviour of
the world, to save us from our sin.
Have you seen the joy of prisoners being freed from jail? Have you
experienced that joy of being set free from sin and eternal damnation? How can you be
depressed when Jesus has set you free?
The Bible is an amazing book. There is not one word in the Bible
without a meaning. He even directs the steps and thoughts of a heathen king.
Once the shepherds experienced this they made these things widely
known. They could not keep silent. They published it from house to house. If the Lord has
worked in your life you will not be able to keep quiet but tell of His wonders.