The Gospel of Luke 2:1-3 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Cæsar 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.” (Luke 2:1-3 KJV).

These passages set the timeline of the Messiah’s birth under the historical backdrop of Roman census for global taxation by edict of Caesar Augustus. Also known as Octavian, Caesar Augustus was the first Roman Emperor. Aiming to establish global stability and “glory” of the Roman Empire after a period of civil wars, one of his first act was implementing of a census, or a registration of the people and their property across the empire. It was used as tool to assess and collect taxes. This census is the subject of Luke 2:1 and sets the stage for the events that follow in the unfolding of the Gospel account.

This taxing initiative was a time of great political and social upheaval in the region. Tension was high as Joseph and Mary travelled to do their duties as citizens to register at their place of birth in Bethlehem, them being descendants of King David.

Joseph and Mary’s act of traveling to Bethlehem for the census symbolizes their humility and submission to earthly authorities, while also foreshadowing the divine plan of God. This narrative emphasizes the idea that God's redemptive plan is at work even within the bounds of human institutions and events. It also highlights the providential convergence of events to fulfill Old Testament prophecy, as God uses the Roman census to bring about the birth of the Lord Jesus Christ in the city of David.

This reminds us not to wonder about the orchestration of physical events that at times bring us discomfort and challenges. Behind those struggles are rewards of blessings, as we rest in God’s grace by faith in Christ Jesus. We have God’s assurance, as it is written: “Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice insofar as you share Christ’s sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed.” (1 Peter 4:12-13 ESV).

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.

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