He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child.

Luke 2:5

For Meditation

Ninety miles … four to seven days. Wow! That’s how long Joseph and Mary traveled from Nazareth to Bethlehem. And this, on foot, or maybe on a donkey. Can you imagine that? The amazing thing was Mary’s condition. The young woman was nine months pregnant; yet, she trekked down the narrow, winding, and mountainous road in response to the Roman Governor’s order.

Sometimes, we don’t stop to think about what Mary endured as God’s instrument in His grace to all mankind. We know how blessed she was, and still is. We remember how venerated she stands in redemption history. However, we pay little attention to her sacrifices and endurance.

Think about the weight of the announcement by angel Gabriel alone. As if the virgin conception was not enough mystery to bear, the baby she was to carry was God – her Creator! Whoever thought about conceiving and carrying God for nine months? What and how do you tell anybody, and who would believe you? But Mary had the uncanny responsibility to be quiet about it. Think about it. How long have you kept a secret without the “don’t tell anybody” stuff? But Mary had to zip it for nine months. The emotional stress and the wonder of how she was going to bring up the child, knowing His exalted identity. But she had to.

Fast forward to Bethlehem. Who wouldn’t have made some noise when May couldn’t find a place to stay? Can you imagine going into your father’s hotel, after a long trip, only to be told there is no room for you? Now, what would the manager hear? So, if you were in Mary’s situation, would you not have broken every oath of secrecy to demand that the Innkeeper make room for you because you are carrying God? But Mary did not. And then to be told that the only place for you is the manger! Yuck!  The filth and stench! Not a place for the mother of God; but Mary made no noise. What a woman!        

So, why do we make such noise about every little discomfort? What have we suffered for God? How much emotional distress have you endured for His service? What is your testimony? Is it of calm endurance or haughty display of self-exaltation?

It is good to know that God may call us into some situations that may task us to our limits. You may be in one already and sliding into emotional meltdown. Or, your experience may be coming up. Remember the Mary experience and learn discretion and endurance from her. For, like her, you are most favored by God!