An Advent Devotional by Kathleen Schwartz December 14 – The Sovereignty of God

“At that time the Roman emperor, Augustus, decreed that a census should be taken throughout the Roman Empire.  (This was the first census taken when Quirinius was governor of Syria.)  All returned to their own towns to register for this census.  And because Joseph was a descendant of King David, he had to go to Bethlehem in Judea, David’s ancient home.  He traveled there from the village of Nazareth in Galilee.  He took with him Mary, his fiancée, who was obviously pregnant by this time.”  Luke 2:1-5  New Living Translation

Have you ever wondered why Luke gives us political information in explaining the reason that Mary and Joseph went to Bethlehem?  Mary had to get to Bethlehem to have the baby, as foretold in the prophecies.  How did that happen?  The Roman government was conducting a census.  This set of circumstances insured that there would be no question that Jesus was born in Judea, King David’s ancient home.  Jesus was of “the house and lineage of David.”

In our home in Zambia, we have up to 80 visitors each year who come to serve the Lord in the Village of Hope.  Some are very staunch Republicans, some are very staunch Democrats.  Here we set aside politics to be serving the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.  In reality, our God is the sovereign God.  As Pastor Zulu says, “Nothing gets by the throne.”  There are no surprises to Him in the affairs of men.

I was so sad to see in the recent election the depth of animosity of people on both sides towards those on the other side.  Even now, people post on Facebook, cartoons and strong political sentiment.  

This may seem off the Advent topic, but our God is Sovereign.  If he could use the evil, wicked, cruel Roman emperors to bring his purposes into being, he can use presidents and prime ministers.  We need to pray for all our leaders.  We are commanded to do so.  We can pray and fast for candidates and political decisions that must be made.  We can share our political views in a gracious manner.  But above all, over all the affairs of men, stands the Sovereign God who is more than able to turn what was meant for evil into good.

“Turn your eyes upon Jesus.

Look full in his wonderful face.

And the things of earth will grow strangely dim,

In the light of his glory and grace.”

Dear Lord Jesus,  May we turn our eyes to you, the express image of the invisible God.  As we view the affairs of men, may our eyes see you.  May we reflect you in our country, in our work, in our families.  You used the evil Roman empire to accomplish your purposes, now we pray that you will use our country to accomplish your purposes.  Give us faith to believe and act with the knowledge that you are the Sovereign God.  Amen.  Come, Lord Jesus!