One Very Busy Night

Most, including myself, have thought upon a certain night and developed a mind-set, picturing it as a very silent night. But when I think about the context of the time, I doubt that it was silent. I certainly hope That I do not disturb our sweet little song, one of my favorites, so calming, gentle, and soothing. I think their world was a lot like ours, filled with activity and commerce, especially as people travelled from town to town, anxious to just get home. The emperor had issued an all-important decree for the census so they could be taxed. Moreover, the time, God's time, had come, and everything started falling into place. It was one very busy night in the then known world. Oh, there were other people groups elsewhere, but the Roman Empire ruled the world that mattered, and The Emperor was waiting for the census. The Roman world was in heavy migration, returning to the their roots. Yes, there were many players on this stage of life, and everyone played their part. There was a vicious and wicked king who was inquisitive and afraid, and the Religious leaders were astute in their chosen profession. There were shepherds sleeping in the open field, caring for their flock. It was a peaceful regular night until suddenly there was one angel, after which a host of angels appeared and spoke to the shepherds who were very understandably terrified. There were wise men travelling from afar, following a star and looking for a baby. They were focused and on an assigned mission, never suspecting evil from the king, because the angel had to warn them of him. There was an overworked innkeeper doing his best to accommodate everybody. There was a newly wedded couple from Nazareth looking for a place to lay their heads. I'm picturing an innkeeper very disappointed that he has run out of space. I suspect that he was like a lot of 'mom and pop' business persons that we know, or like many 'frontline employees' that we have met. Yes, doubtless, he was a very decent and precious man like the good Samaritan who would have helped anyone. I tell you, I cannot help but picture The Lord looking down on all that was going on that busy night and saying similar words like when he created the world and all that is in it. As at the beginning, God said, "And it was good". On that busy night, as a king was plotting the death of The Son of God, there was a lot of angelic activity, but God Himself was not busy. He saw things going just according to plan, because God is painting a big picture for our eyes to behold and our lives to enjoy. Ultimately, God's way and will are the only ones that matter. 121520PS