Right after Jesus shows Satan what He’s really made of in the wilderness, He goes into a synagogue to read a very particular passage in Isaiah.  He is making a clear statement of His direct mandate from the LORD and His reasons for being on earth.  He lets them know unequivocally that He is fulfilling prophecy.  He does stop mid sentence, compared to the section He is quoting, strongly indicating that His time, this time, does not include the rest of the statement.  But next time is coming.

I have put this passage in Isaiah to song, per our normal methods of meditating on God’s Word.  Here is Isaiah 61:1-3 in a minor funk with a middle eastern influence:

Isaiah 61.1-3

God takes care of the details.  He didn’t leave Mary alone in her unique and unbelievable condition.  He gave her a godly man as a husband to take care of her.  After Mary receiving, and accepting, the initial message from the angel, all the communication is recorded as going through her husband.  Of all the men in the Bible, no one responds more promptly and unquestioningly to God’s directions than this Joseph.  And Mary apparently didn’t argue with Joseph or mope around about continuing to get her own messages from God.  She let God lead her through her husband, just as Christ desires to lead His Church.

Below is a link to a Bible passage I put to song this year.  I’m new to this aspect of my blog, but I’m hoping you can download it if you would like to.  Merry Christmas to you!

Matthew 1_18-25 (Angels in Joseph’s Dream)

In the wake of carrying out death sentences on all boys under the age of 2 in Bethlehem and surrounding districts, the government stands by its claim that the actions were necessary for the stability and welfare of the country at large.   The official report is that there was a insurgence brewing.  In order to avoid embroiling the region in war, they sought to round-up the ring leader, no matter what his age.  It is thought that he was killed in the attack.  A government spokesperson remarked that further action is not anticipated.  Many observers, stunned at the brutality and carnage, are quick to question the king’s intentions.  The proportion of parents in mourning is overwhelming the communities.  Reference is being made to a prophecy of Jeremiah’s which predicts just such a massacre in this locale.

Bethlehem correspondent -

for background information articles click here

BNP has been granted an interview with the retinue from the east under the condition that it not be released until they are safely beyond the borders of the Roman Empire. The group’s exact origin has not been disclosed, but indications are that they may be from Parthia. Experts have suggested that they have some historical ties with the Jewish noble, Daniel, who was captured by the Babylonians and was a magi in that culture. The current group of magi agreed to answer questions after they left Herod’s palace, but insisted that they continue their quest during the inquiry. It is unclear why they needed direction from Herod, since they pointed out a certain mobile star that they were following. There is some speculation that they were taunting him, since his is only a Roman appointed office. However, Herod’s council did know how to locate the ancient prophecy of a king being born in Bethlehem, providing more corroboration for the baby king’s importance.

When the star finally held still over a house, the visitors brought out expensive gifts for a young child there. These gifts were ascertained to be quantities of frankincense, gold, and myrrh, that last being particularly atypical since it is an embalming perfume. Presentation of the gifts was unmistakably accompanied with worship. The parents of the child have been identified as Mary and Joseph of Galilee, the same couple who have been having conversations with angels this year.  Shepherds also singled out this baby based on an encounter with numerous angels.  The impressive entourage from the east did not return to Herod as it was thought they would, this due to a divine dream warning them to take an alternate route.

Jerusalem – about 3 AD

Dignitaries from a rival eastern empire have arrived in Jerusalem professing to be in search of a king who has recently been born. They say this heir to the Jewish throne was brought to their attention because of a star that designates his existence and they want to worship him. Herod has been speaking with them on diplomatic terms, but sources from inside the Palace say he and his advisers are extremely concerned about the political ramifications of such declarations of kingship. Priests and scribes are being consulted about ancient prophecy to aid in locating the baby, ostensibly so that Herod will be able to go pay homage himself. Further meetings are being held behind closed doors.

Bethlehem – breaking news

Reports are being widely circulated of shepherds prowling the streets of Bethlehem. The consistent explanation given by the shepherds interviewed is that they are searching for “a babe wrapped in swaddling clothes lying in a manger.” The affair seems to be connected with Mary and Joseph, who reported having spoken with angels earlier this year. One angel allegedly showed up in the fields first, giving the now familiar dispatch that a special baby is being born. Part of the news was that he would be a savior. This supports Joseph’s previous testimony that Mary’s baby would save the people from their sins. The shepherds maintain that a multitude of angels appeared to them during the night and sang praises to God. Residents say they are marveling at it all. related news

World News -

A decree issued by Casaer Augustus is causing upheaval throughout the world.  The decree requires all persons to return to their place of family origin to register.  Relocation for undetermined lengths of time are expected, disrupting many businesses.  Some are known to have to travel as far as 80 or 90 miles.  Those with elderly parents, small children, or pregnant wives will be at a disadvantage when they arrive last in towns where lodgings are filled to capacity.  Rents are likely to spike.  Even if it is possible to find lodging with relatives, there may only be beds available in the lower floors of houses, with the animals.  Travelers are advised to take as many of their own supplies as they can.

Galilee -

The young woman who says the angel Gabriel appeared to her has finally given details of the incident.  Mary of Nazareth assures everyone that she was not intimidated or injured.  The angel said she did not need to be afraid and he clearly conveyed the message from God.  Besides the unusual difficulties associated with a virgin birth, the most noteworthy part of the announcement was that her son will sit on the throne of David and rule the house of Jacob forever.  Mary maintains that nothing else of importance transpired.  It is expected that all further communication will be through her husband, Joseph.

related articles

following the story

Blodgett Newswire – approximately 732,200 days ago

Reports have been leaked about an angel appearing to a young lady in Nazareth.  Her parents were understandably attempting to keep the story quiet, as it includes claims of supernatural pregnancy.  The woman is currently betrothed to a man of the house and lineage of David, Joseph, also of Nazareth.  Word on the street is that Joseph considered calling off the arrangement, then also claimed to have received a message from an angel, but in the venue of a dream.  He now plans to go through with the marriage.  The couple will be traveling to Bethlehem shortly and all gifts can be left with the magi, who will visit them soon. recent updates on the situation