Mary And Joseph Travel To Bethlehem Bible Verse
The story of Mary and Joseph traveling to Bethlehem is a familiar one. It is recounted in many Christmas plays and pageants every year. But how much do we know about the actual scriptural account of this famous journey?
The Journey Begins
The story of Mary and Joseph's journey to Bethlehem is found in the Gospel of Luke, Chapter 2, verses 1-7:
And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar 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. 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. And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.
This passage tells us that Joseph and Mary were required to travel to Bethlehem to register for a census. This census was ordered by Caesar Augustus, the Roman Emperor, and required everyone to return to their ancestral hometown to be counted. For Joseph, this meant traveling from Nazareth to Bethlehem, as he was a descendant of King David who was born in Bethlehem. Mary accompanied Joseph on this journey, even though she was in the later stages of her pregnancy.
The Journey to Bethlehem
The distance between Nazareth and Bethlehem is approximately 70 miles. Today, this journey can be accomplished in a few hours by car. However, for Mary and Joseph, the journey would have been a difficult and potentially dangerous one. They likely traveled on foot, and Mary's pregnancy would have made the journey even more challenging.
The terrain between Nazareth and Bethlehem is hilly and rugged. The journey would have taken them through desolate wilderness areas, rocky hills, and steep valleys. They would have had to contend with extreme weather conditions, including hot sun and cold nights.
Mary and Joseph's journey would also have been made more challenging by the presence of bandits and thieves on the road. It was not uncommon for travelers to be robbed and even killed on the way to their destination.
The Arrival in Bethlehem
When Mary and Joseph arrived in Bethlehem, they found that the town was crowded with others who had come to be counted in the census. There was no room for them in any of the inns or guesthouses. They were forced to seek shelter in a stable, where they could be protected from the elements and the dangers of the road.
It was in this humble setting that Mary gave birth to her son, Jesus. She wrapped him in swaddling clothes and laid him in a manger, a feeding trough used for animals. This would be the first bed of the savior of the world.
The Meaning of the Journey
The journey of Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem has great significance for Christians. It reminds us of the humility and sacrifice of Jesus, who left his throne in heaven to be born as a human being in a stable. It also reminds us of the love and devotion of Mary and Joseph, who endured great hardship to fulfill God's plan for their lives.
As we celebrate Christmas each year, let us remember the journey of Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem. Let us be inspired by their faith and courage, and let us honor the savior whose birth they traveled so far to witness.
