Scripture: Luke 2

Key Points to Ponder: God uses an ungodly ruler like Caesar Augustus to bring about His perfect plan (vv. 1-6). Jesus had to be born in Bethlehem. Luke continues to show us how God uses unlikely characters like the shepherds to be involved in Jesus’ life. As wonderful and glorious was the birth of Christ, the prophecy by Simeon, “And a sword will pierce your own soul too,” is a sobering reminder of what Jesus was born for. 

Challenging Terms: The term, “the house and line of David,” refers to the line of descendants it was prophesied that Jesus would come through. 

Reflection: How can you see God’s hand orchestrating circumstances that appear to be seemingly out of control? Reflect on the main reasons why Jesus was born.

Prayer: Father, thank you that you do fulfill your promises and that no plan of yours can be thwarted. Help me to grasp that reality in my heart at this very moment. As you do I pray that your comfort will abound in me.