Luke 2:1-14 " And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Cesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed. (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was Governor of Syria) And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city. And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:) To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child. And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn SON, and wrapped HIM in swaddling clothes, and laid HIM in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.
And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the LORD came upon them, and the glory of the LORD shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, ' Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a SAVIOR, which is CHRIST the LORD. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. ' And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising GOD, and saying, ' Glory to GOD in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men. ' "
Suppose men had been put in charge of CHRIST's grand entrance into this world - how differently things would have unfolded ! If the planning of this event were put in our hands: (1) We would want HIM to come to one of the world's greatest cities (New York, Beijing, Paris, London) - yet CHRIST came to Bethlehem, a small village sparsely populated. (2) We would want HIM to come to some world famous edifice or some amazing palace and have the nicest accommodation - yet CHRIST was born in a stable and laid in an animal feeding trough. (3) We would want the world's most important people to be present when HE comes to earth (heads of state, presidents, prime ministers, kings) - yet CHRIST was welcomed by common folk: humble shepherds. (4) We would want the whole world to be told of HIS arrival; we would want the event to be covered by all the major media outlets - yet CHRIST's coming was unnoticed by the vast majority of people. (5) We would want to see GOD in all of HIS power and glory, to see what HE could do and how great HE is - yet CHRIST entered the world as a dependent baby, not putting HIS power and glory on outward display.
Yes, GOD's marvelous plan for HIS SON's entrance into the world came about, not by the cunning schemes of man, but by the infinite wisdom of the GOD WHO knows exactly what this wold needs. " For ye know the grace of our LORD JESUS CHRIST, that, though HE was rich, yet for your sakes HE became poor, that ye through HIS poverty might be rich " (2nd.Corinthians 8:9). So also JESUS CHRIST's great unveiling at HIS second coming will unfold, not as men may want it, but according to the FATHER's perfect plan. GWZ
Your servant in CHRIST,
Julie
Copyright, Feature: A Daily Bible Study Guide
Used with permission. www.feasite.org
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