Michelle Bauer ~ When Christ Interrupts
In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. (This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.) And everyone went to his own town to register.
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. While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger because there was no room for them in the inn. – Luke 2:1-17
Mary and Joseph continued to have their lives interrupted by history. Very pregnant Mary finds herself on a donkey making the journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem. What would it mean for Mary to have her baby away from home?
As you celebrated Jesus’ birth by exchanging gifts, did you remember that God’s presence with us is the greatest gift we will ever receive? In what way might you receive the gift of God’s presence in crowded or hurried moments today?
Mary gave birth to Jesus in a barn or cave because no one would make room for them in the inn. These are people who refused to let Jesus’ birth interrupt their lives. What did they miss out on?
Has there been a time when you have refused to let Jesus interrupt your life? What were the consequences? Take a moment to remember a time in which you did allow Jesus to interrupt your life. What were the challenges? What were the blessings?
Have you noticed how King David’s name keeps popping up in this story? God is keeping a promise he made to David that his descendants would reign forever. God always keeps his promises. What promise are you holding onto today?
We have seen that when Jesus arrives, it often brings disruption and a change in plans. Offer a prayer to God surrendering your life and plans. Invite him to be God With You today and always.
Silent Night, holy night,
All is calm, all is bright.
Round yon virgin mother and child!
Holy Infant so tender and mild.
Sleep in heavenly peace.
Sleep in heavenly peace.