Those Who Think They're in Control...

...a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. 2 This was the first registration when Quirinius was governor of Syria. 3 And all went to be registered, each to his own town. 4 And Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the town of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, 5 to be registered with Mary, his betrothed, who was with child (Luke 2)

Taxes are a demonstration of power. Governments are given the authority to collect taxes to pay for community services. But power can go to your head. Such was the case in the days of Joseph and Mary. They were not only being taxed, but it was incovenient for them to do so.  And they probably did not get a deduction because Jesus was born in Bethlehem; it most likely cost them more because it was a per capita tax, not an income tax. All these things might make one think that Caesar was indeed ultimately in power. But he was being played. God was really in charge orchestrating it all, and His plan will not be thwarted.  Advent is a time when we must stop and realize that He is LORD, and I, nor anyone else is. Joseph and Mary sure knew that. And the Caesars eventually did too. What a glorious plan He has unfolded, and still is and will!