“In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. 2 (This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.) 3 And everyone went to their own town to register. 4 So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. 5 He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child.” Luke 2:1-5 NIV
Lord God,
Things have not changed. We still have to register for tax. We need to be registered in a census to see where we live and who we live with. But now it is almost all online. Which brings its own frustrations! No journey to the tax centre. Certainly no need for a donkey, several days food and blankets and water. The one time I went to Israel there was a snow storm!
We all have days when things have to be done and everything seems to hinder us. Small tasks seem to take ages. Problems arise out of nowhere. There are roadworks. They are shut for lunch – and you arrive just as they close. And we know it was the same for Mary, Joseph and even Jesus!. No room at the inn. A necessary exit to Egypt when they wanted to go home. A storm on a still lake, everyone bringing the sick to be healed when Jesus was tired. 5000 hungry people far from home and hungry. You understand.
Sometimes we have to stop and find our rest in You. To be grateful for what we do have. There were no robbers, there was a safe, private place to sleep. Jesus was not born on the road.
And they could hold Your dreams and promises in their hearts to know You would not let them down. You were with them. You sent what they would need, when they needed it. Help us to know You are with us even when life gives us bother and annoyances. And help us journey on with You till we register in heaven. No taxes there.
In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Suggestions for prayer . . .
Lord God, our Father,
For our family, friends, neighbours, those we promised to pray for.
For our Christian family. Christmas services and meals planned.
For our king and His family and all those in authority (1 Timothy 2:2).
For our Government and for peace in our nation in this season.
For Ukraine and Russia. A miraculous end to war.
For Sudan and all areas of conflict in the Middle East to know a new movement to peace.
For those planning or making journeys for Christmas to see family or friends.
For calm seas and safe ferries. Flights on time and clear roads.
Help the border patrols and police catch criminals selling boats to migrants.
For those organising shelters and meals for over Christmas. For volunteers.
For those charities and missions we support to have all they need at this time.
For us to remember the times You have encouraged and provided for us and give thanks.
In Jesus name we pray, Amen
Worship Wednesday 18th December 2024
Had to be this!
Little donkey, little donkey
On the dusty road
Got to keep on plodding onward
With your precious load
Been a long time little donkey
Through the winters night
Don’t give up now little donkey
Bethlehem’s in sight
Ring out those bells tonight
Bethlehem, Bethlehem
Follow that little star tonight
Bethlehem, Bethlehem
Little donkey, carry Mary safely on her way
Little donkey, little donkey
Journeys end is near
There are wise men waiting for a
Sign to bring them here
Do not falter, little donkey
There’s a star ahead
It will guide you, little donkey
To a cattle shed
Lyrics: Eric Boswell