Luke 2:1-7 (NRSV)
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Chapter 2In those days a decree went out from Emperor Augustus that all the world should be registered. Verse 2This was the first registration and was taken while Quirinius was governor of Syria. Verse 3All went to their own towns to be registered. Verse 4Joseph 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. Verse 5He went to be registered with Mary, to whom he was engaged and who was expecting a child. Verse 6While they were there, the time came for her to deliver her child. Verse 7And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in bands of cloth, and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.
Devotion
Today begins the story of all stories. It is profound in its simplicity; it is exalted in its humbleness. The emperor of this world has set in motion an enrollment, a system of governmental control over the people for taxation purposes. At the same time God’s enrollment unfolds in the womb of a young woman who gives birth to God’s own Son. In this child God enrolls us in a kingdom of God’s choosing for all eternity under the lordship of Jesus.
Prayer
O Holy Child of Bethlehem, descend to us, we pray; Cast out our sin and enter in, be born in us today. We hear the Christmas angels, the great glad tidings tell; Oh, come to us, abide with us, our Lord, Immanuel. Amen.