The Time Came

Luke tells the story of Jesus’ birth so succinctly and yet with so much detail. In the Greek text these two verses are just one sentence. It is told in a style that simply explains what happened—i.e., “This happened, and then that happened, and this is why it happened the way it did.” Each of the phrases within this sentence holds it’s own significance, however the sentence starts with the phrase, “While they were there, the time came.” In other words, the stage was set. God waited for just this moment to introduce the World to His own Son.

God orchestrated the moment through the Emperor. Even though Caesar held supreme authority by man’s standards, even Caesar was simply a pawn to God. For God used Caesar to declare the timing of the census, which caused Joseph and Mary to end up in Bethlehem at just this time. Thus the prediction from Micah 5:2-4 became true just like God predicted.

God waited for the right time so that the Gentiles would be ready to receive the good news. Rome controlled much of the known world, which created a common language (Greek) and a road system for travel. Though the Romans were trying to Helenize the area of Palestine, I’m sure most people realized that these Roman leaders were not gods. They were just humans who were trying to manipulate and control the world for their own gain.

Yet the one true God set everything up for the perfect time for when he would introduce his Son to the World. It was not a perfect, luxurious welcome for the King of Kings. Based on God’s prediction, it was perfect and just as He said.

I hope your heart is ready to celebrate Christmas. May your life be filled with His JOY and MERCY as you enjoy your weekend.

-Daniel Jensen
Director of Camp Ministries
Lakeside Bible Camp

Ps… This post marks the last of our advent readings for the season. Tomorrow is Christmas Day, and we’ll have a video that comes out on the News Splash to send our Christmas greeting and to announce the Summer theme for 2023. So stay tuned for that video.