Advent StudySample

PEACE

Think back to elementary school when your teacher would make everyone line up so every student could be accounted for; this must be similar to what Caesar had in mind when he put out the decree for a census to be taken. He required all people to return to the city in which they were born. As a result, a man named Joseph, native to Bethlehem, was forced to return to his hometown, accompanied by a pregnant Mary, mother of Jesus, to whom he was betrothed!

The city was busting at the seams, as hundreds were forced to return to Bethlehem to be counted. It was during this time, away from their home, Mary gave birth to our Savior in a stable. It may have appeared to be the perfect storm, but to God, this was His perfect plan. When Mary gave birth in Bethlehem while betrothed to a man from the lineage of David, this fulfilled Biblical prophecy that predated Mary and Joseph by hundreds of years. (Micah 5:2 tells of the One who would come forth from Bethlehem).

In the supernatural, sovereignty of God, Biblical prophecy was fulfilled and the Messiah was born, to bring hope and peace to mankind.

• Did you know the ministry of Jesus saw the fulfillment of more than 300 prophecies found in the Old Testament? How does this point you to worship?

Prayer: God, You are the supreme author of my life. I surrender my plans and seek you, because your way is better!