“In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. 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 2:1, 4-5
“Caesar Augustus” was given this title in 27 BC. The Roman Senate conferred on Octavian, the reigning Caesar, the title “Augustus” (“the exalted one”). For all his glory, however, Caesar Augustus remained God’s instrument. His call for a worldwide census unwittingly set into motion the events of Jesus’ birth, thereby bringing to fulfillment the prophecy regarding his place of birth.
“Entire Roman world” comes from a Greek word meaning “the inhabited world”. Luke uses the same term later to emphasize the all-inclusive nature of the Gospel.
To “register” was necessary for taxation purposes. The registration, following Jewish custom, took place at a person’s ancestral home. The journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem, hometown of Joseph’s and Mary’s ancestor King David, was about ninety miles, at least a three-day trip.
“Pledged to be married” … the fact that Mary made the journey with Joseph suggests that they were already married. However, the marriage had not yet been consummated.
The birth of a child always comes with great hardship, but the birth of this Child comes with great blessings for sinners. As you reflect on the wonder of Jesus’ birth, pray also for a humble and pure heart. The Lord will have mercy on you and love you by grace alone.
God’s blessings on your day…