Mary and Joseph may well have had plans to stay in Bethlehem for some time. They had become celebrities. The shepherds had wonderful things to say about them; word had gotten round about their reception at the temple; the Wise Men had left them some very nice gifts. This could be their new home!
Then came for Joseph what must have been a nightmare. An angel told him to flee to Egypt as Herod was determined to eliminate any threat to his throne. It would not be an easy sojourn. Even at a brisk pace, it would easily take ten days. We do not know which route they took or where they stayed. It must have been a very unsettling time. What had looked so promising was now ... so uncertain.
However, they knew God's promise their child would indeed be the Savior of all. They knew well God's saving acts when the children of Israel had traveled through this same desert from Egypt to the Promised Land. They were well aware Moses had been an infant in Egypt in a time when the king of Egypt was determined to kill all baby boys born to the Hebrews. They knew these stories of God's deliverance of His people.
There are times when our secure world also gets turned upside down. The memory of God's care for His people and, in particular, His care for this young family, should encourage us as we move into an uncertain future. God is faithful; His love for us is sure.
THE PRAYER: O heavenly Father, we travel into the future with the sure confidence Your love is steadfast and sure. Bless us with great faith and a sure hope. Amen.
|
