His Perfect Plan

Mary and Joseph’s journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem is not a mere coincidence; it’s a fulfillment of ancient prophecies, of the words by the prophet Micah that had echoed through the corridors of time: But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times (Micah 5:2 NIV). 

God seems to like to use practical circumstances to bring about his divine purposes. Mary and Joseph go to Bethlehem because Emperor Augustus decrees a Roman census and that’s where Joseph, due to his lineage, must go—to the city of David. The census, aimed at aiding Roman military conscription or tax collection, becomes a tool in God’s perfect plan, unfolding in his perfect timing. God has no problem working through the mundane for profound purposes.

Remaining Resilient

But the road is still challenging. Picture Mary, heavily pregnant, riding a donkey along the rugged terrain from Nazareth to Bethlehem—a demanding 70-mile journey across dusty roads, uneven paths. I remember when my wife was pregnant; it seemed like we had to take a bathroom stop every hour. She could never get comfortable, and we were in an Escalade, not on a donkey. 

Yet Mary seems to remain resilient. How? It’s likely the angel’s prophetic words provide a source of strength and purpose. She was told she carries the promised Messiah! With each step, Mary probably clings to the divine promise, finding resilience in the significance of her journey and calling. 

Finding My Calling

I think about my own story and how God used ordinary means to reach me. He used basketball to bring me back to the church. In 2004, I was invited to play basketball at Seacoast. I knew God, but wasn’t living a Christian lifestyle as a college student. But playing basketball every Sunday led me to church services, joining a small group, serving at the church, and eventually helping open the North Charleston Dream Center. Now, 19 years later, I’m the North Charleston Campus Pastor. God used basketball to help me find my calling.

God weaves his plans into the fabric of our everyday lives, and often sets things in motion long before we realize what he’s doing in his perfect timing. 

Reflect:
How have you seen God use ordinary means to transform someone’s life in his perfect timing?