It’s interesting that Jesus was born in Bethlehem, which is 90 miles away from where Joseph and Mary lived in Nazareth. While it would only take an hour and a half by car today, back then, it was at least a weeklong trip over rugged terrain. On top of that, it was wintertime, so it was close to freezing during the day and may have rained all night. Though we know that the Lord had to be born in the City of David so that prophecy could be fulfilled, it’s interesting how much this young couple had to endure before the arrival of the world’s Great Redeemer. In fact, I think it teaches us a powerful lesson about dealing with adversity today. Just like Mary and Joseph had to travel a rough road to arrive at the place where the Savior would be born, so you and I will encounter hardships and obstacles, especially as we do the Lord’s work. We have an adversary who is always seeking to distract, discourage, and displace us when we are giving birth to something great in the Kingdom of God, and it’s important to be wise to his schemes. 

My friend, I beg you not to give up when the road gets rough and the weather turns cold. No matter how exhausted you are, keep moving forward until the dream Jesus has birthed in your heart is born. The greater the call, the stronger the adversity. You are held safely in the Hands of the Living God, and even when you feel like you will succumb to Satan’s attacks, remember the victory that was won on the cross and press on. You will get to your destination and when you do, Christ’s glory in you will be so great that it will push back the kingdom of darkness!