ALMOST THERE
J.S. Taylor
Today's Scripture: “You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you.” Isaiah 26:3, ESV
Theme: When you feel overwhelmed and stressed this season, seek peace by refocusing on God.
FORTITUDE
“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.” (Luke 2:4-5, NIV).
The distance from Nazareth to Bethlehem is approximately 100 miles. Scholars tell us that in ancient times, it was an arduous journey replete with threats from wild animals, thieves, and robbers, as well as natural hazards such as deserts, forests, rivers, and other natural impediments. If walking, travelers could be expected to cover 20 miles per day. However, Joseph and Mary (with Mary near the end of her pregnancy) would have been able to cover significantly less distance; the trip would likely have taken them at least nine to ten days. Also, though we celebrate Christmas in December, we really don’t know exactly what time of year Christ was born. Mary and Joseph could have faced extreme heat or bitter cold, depending on the season.
Needless to say, given the circumstances, the trip would have taken a significant level of courage and perseverance – and the fortitude which comes from faith in God’s promises and the strength provided by His Spirit. One can only imagine how physically and mentally trying this journey must have been for Mary and Joseph. Their resolve and trust to forge ahead, to get to Bethlehem in the face of adversity and uncertainty, is just another piece of the miracle that is Christmas.
FAITH
Years ago, I ran a marathon. I had signed up for the race, but that was only the first step. I had to prepare. I couldn’t just sign up and show up the day of the race without the significant training required to run and complete the race. I spent six months training.
Similarly, Joseph and Mary accepted and were willing to do what God had called them to do. In a sense, they knew what they had signed up for. But they could never have anticipated they would be chosen by God to be the earthly parents of the Messiah. However, regardless of this, their preparation for this purpose started long beforehand. Joseph is described as a righteous man, one “faithful to the law” (Matthew 1:19-20). Mary is addressed by the angel Gabriel as one who was “highly favored” by God (Luke 1:28). Their faith and trust in God gave them the peace to withstand the perils of the journey that lay before them.
FULFILLMENT
A lonely road, a willing heart
Pray for strength to do your part
You're almost there, you're almost there
Trust the Father to provide
Bread of heaven prophesied
You're almost there, you're almost there
You're almost where the waiting ends
Delivering the life within
The answered prayer, Emmanuel
You're almost there
(Excerpt from the song “Almost There” – Michael W. Smith, Amy Grant, Wes King)
Joseph and Mary’s unexpected journey was used by God to fulfill the promise of the Savior being born in Bethlehem, the City of David. (Micah 5:2) Every day, they had to choose to keep taking it one day at a time, one step at a time, to complete the long trek. I believe it’s likely they were aware that Christ was prophesied to be born in the city of David. Their actions demonstrate their focus was on being faithful and trusting God, and He saw them through the travails of the sojourn to complete His purpose.
Making It Personal: God’s plan may not take the route or path I expect. I have many times been presented with situations and circumstances that don’t seem to make sense. It can be frustrating. But I have found if I am willing to hold on to trust in Him, even in the face of difficulties, God is always faithful to His own and will provide sufficient peace of mind. I just have to remember not to give up on the journey before the miracle happens.
Pray: Lord, I praise You for Your sovereignty: You are in control of all things and ever-present. Even when I waiver, You are there. Please help me to focus on You rather than the distractions and circumstances of everyday life. When I am stressed or overwhelmed, I will remember the faithfulness of Your servants, Joseph and Mary. Please make me a channel of Your peace, so that I may be a light of Your hope to others. Amen.
Read: Jeremiah 23:5-6; Matthew 1:1; Luke 1:32-33; Hebrews 1:5; Romans 5:3-5
Weekly Memory Verse: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” John 14:27, ESV