JOSEPH AND MARY
WHY THEY REGISTERED AT BETHLEHEM FOR A CENSUS?
The journey of Joseph and Mary to Bethlehem for the census, as described in Luke 2:1-5, carries profound spiritual significance and fulfills Old Testament prophecies. Here’s a comprehensive understanding of why this journey was necessary and its importance for Christians:
Biblical Reference
– Luke 2:1-5: “In those days a decree went out from Emperor Augustus that all the world should be registered. This was the first registration and was taken while Quirinius was governor of Syria. All went to their own towns to be registered. Joseph also went from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to the city of David called Bethlehem, because he was descended from the house and family of David. He went to be registered with Mary, to whom he was engaged and who was expecting a child.”
Key Reasons and Messages
1. Fulfillment of Prophecy
– Micah 5:2: The journey to Bethlehem fulfilled the prophecy that the Messiah would be born in Bethlehem. This demonstrates God’s sovereign plan in orchestrating events to fulfill His word. The birthplace of Jesus was not by chance but a fulfillment of divine prophecy, highlighting God’s control over historical events.
2. Davidic Lineage
– Royal Descent: Both Joseph and Mary were descendants of King David. Luke 2:4 states, “Joseph also went up from Galilee… to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David.” This emphasizes Jesus’ royal lineage and His right to be called the “Son of David” (Mt 1:1). This lineage is crucial for affirming Jesus’ rightful place in Jewish history and prophecy.
3. Jewish Custom
– Genealogical Records: Unlike the Roman practice of registering in one’s place of residence, Jewish custom required individuals to register according to their ancestral lineage. The Israelites maintained meticulous genealogical records tracing back to the twelve tribes of Israel, reflecting the importance of heritage and identity in God’s covenant with Israel. This custom ensured that the lineage and tribal affiliations were preserved, maintaining the integrity of Israel’s history.
4. Divine Providence
– Secular Events in God’s Plan: The decree by Caesar Augustus (Lk 2:1) shows how God can use secular events to accomplish His purposes. This reminds Christians that God is in control of history and can use any circumstance to fulfill His will. Even a decree from a pagan emperor played a role in bringing about the fulfillment of God’s promises.
5. Humility and Obedience
– The Arduous Journey: The journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem was approximately 150 kilometers (90 miles) and would have taken many days, especially challenging for Mary, who was in an advanced stage of pregnancy. Their obedience to earthly authorities (Rom 13:1) and trust in God’s plan are examples of humility and faithfulness. This journey underscores the virtue of obedience to both divine and human authorities.
6. Two Genealogies
– Matthew and Luke: Matthew’s gospel provides Jesus’ genealogy through Joseph (Mt 1:1-17), while Luke’s account is believed by many scholars to trace Mary’s lineage (Lk 3:23-38). These dual genealogies affirm Jesus as the “Son of David” both legally (through Joseph) and by blood (through Mary). This dual lineage highlights Jesus’ fulfillment of messianic prophecies from different aspects of Jewish tradition.
REFLECTION
The journey to Bethlehem is a powerful reminder that God’s plans often unfold in unexpected ways, requiring faith and obedience. It emphasizes the importance of Jesus’ identity as both fully human, with a traceable lineage, and divine, fulfilling God’s promises to Israel and humanity. For Christians, it is a call to trust in God’s providential care and to remain faithful and obedient, knowing that God’s purposes are always for our good.