Little Town of Bethlehem

“And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city. And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David; to be taxed with Mary, his espoused wife, being great with child.” (Luke 2:3–6)

People crowded the small town of Bethlehem, bustling with activity because of the census. Families had to register in their ancestors’ birthplace; for Joseph and Mary, Bethlehem, David's city, was a four-day journey from their home in Nazareth (eighty miles). Though Joseph earned a meager living with his carpentry skills, he obeyed the law by paying his due tax. We can only imagine what a grueling trip that was for Mary, whether she walked or rode on a donkey, being “great with child.” Yet, despite the discomfort, she obeyed the law, fulfilling the prophecy of where the Messiah was born (Micah 5:2).

Taxes and the census have been around since early Bible days—government reports about who’s who, where you live, and your financial status. The purpose of the information and monies collected is to have a current population headcount, keep citizens safe, support the country, and help people in need. You may not care for these reports thinking, my business is not the government’s business, but the law is the law. Jesus said that we should give Caesar (the government) what we owe and to God those things that are His (Luke 20:25). Honor God: Obey God's Word as a child of His Kingdom. As a law-abiding citizen, obey the land laws if they are not contrary to God’s law. Give what’s due them both, no matter how uncomfortable the thought or if you disagree with or dislike the idea.