Luke 2:1 “In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. And everyone went to their own town to register.” I’ve been working on a new project that has me up late at night and doing calls early in the morning. I’ve been fighting to protect my time with God and family, but that means my sleep has suffered significantly. I knew this would take a toll before I agreed to move forward, but I took some time to pray and fast before embarking. And when God says to go, well, you just gotta go. Today I’m reminded that God can use these sorts of tough situations for more favor. Joseph and Mary similarly had to submit to authority to head back to their hometown and register for the census. That journey is 90 miles, and in ancient times, people would travel 20 miles/day in the blistering heat if they were lucky. Scholars believe that Mary, being pregnant, would have traveled more like 10 miles/day. After a grueling trip, they arrived back to a jam-packed Bethlehem. They couldn’t find a few square meters at a relative’s house to squat at, let alone a hotel room. (Reminds me of Singapore during Formula One season). A few nights of bad sleep pale in comparison to the suffering and inconvenience endured by this faithful couple in their journey of obedience. Yet we know that God used this to bring about the greatest gift the world has ever known. Lord thank you for reminding me that all things work for the good of those who love you, who have been called according to your purpose. I submit myself to you, and look forward to see how you move in the months and years to come. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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