Bethlehem Journey

" And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed. And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city. And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:) To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child. " Luke 2:1, 3-5

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 There are many that do not realize that Jesus' birth was not truly in December. December 25th used to be ( and can still be ) a pagan holiday. As a Christian, although not the actual time of the birth of Christ, is a time I set aside to celebrate His birth. Let's investigate.

 Jesus is the Lamb of God. All Lambs are born in the Spring. Also, why would Caesar announce a tax time for everyone to have to travel to their hometown in the winter? It snows there in the hills of Judaea same as in many other places around the world! Think of how our modern system is run in the United States. Taxes are in the Spring. While there is still no set date ( not even a month! ) as to when Jesus was really born, this makes a lot more sense. Travel was hard enough in those days, with rough paths and primitive modes of transportation. In fact, many walked. What a journey that must have been for Mary! How Joseph must have worried over her and the unborn babe. But they arrived safely, with our Lord to be born soon after.