Luke 2

1 In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered.

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Unaware Utility: Caesar Augustus’ Role in God’s Grand Plan

In Luke 2, we are told that the Roman Emperor himself, Caesar Augustus, ordered that a census would be taken of the entire empire. “In those days, Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world.” Caesar undoubtedly issued this order for his own political purposes, but as we reflect on this passage, we see that God can and does use anyone, even the most powerful, secular figures, to do His will and fulfill His purposes.

Reflection

It is doubtful that Caesar Augustus had any knowledge of the prophecies about the birthplace of the coming Messiah. He would not have known that Micah 5 foretold that “a ruler over Israel” would come from the small town of Bethlehem. Indeed, who would have otherwise expected that the Messiah would hail from such an insignificant town? Without Augustus’ order, though, Joseph and Mary would not have undertaken that difficult journey, especially in Mary’s condition. So without Caesar Augustus’ unknowing participation in God’s grand plan, there would have been no reason for them to be in Bethlehem for Jesus’ birth, as foretold by the ancient prophecy.

This scripture should cause us to consider the possibility of God’s moving in our own lives, even though we may be unaware. Do we ever find ourselves feeling powerless or insignificant, or do we wonder how our lives fit into God’s plan? Maybe, just like Caesar Augustus, we are unaware participants in God’s divine plan, a plan much larger than we can imagine.

Application

Trust in God’s Sovereignty. Think about the ways that God may be at work behind the scenes in our life. Even when things seem out of control, we can trust that God has a plan. He is in control, and His plan will be accomplished and His will be done.

Be open to divine interruptions. How difficult it must have been for Joseph and Mary to have to journey to Bethlehem. God’s plan for us may seem inconvenient or difficult, but sometimes difficulty leads to growth.

Recognize the big picture. It may be difficult to see beyond our immediate circumstances. As hard as it may be, we need to make every effort to step back and consider how our lives fit into God’s broader plan for His kingdom. As Pastor Marc has preached, each of our stories matter, and if we make ourselves available (and sometimes even if we don’t), God will use our lives for His own glory.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your perfect plan. We know that it may unfold in ways that we
cannot see or understand. Help us to trust in You and Your plan for our lives, and to be open to the ways You are working in our lives. May we find peace in knowing that even those who seem far removed from You can be instruments of Your will. Grant us the faith to see Your hand at work, and the courage and strength to follow wherever You lead. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

As we move through this Advent season, we should remember that God is writing His story through every moment, even those that we don’t understand. Just as Emperor Caesar Augustus played a part in fulfilling the scripture regarding our Savior’s birthplace, we, too, are part of God’s perfect plan.

– Mr. Gene Willets