Far away in Rome, the emperor Caesar Augustus made a new rule. Everyone had to go to their family's hometown to be counted.
Joseph's family came from King David, and David's town was Bethlehem. So Joseph and Mary packed up and left their home in Nazareth.
It was a long trip, many days over hills and dusty roads. Mary's baby would be born soon! But God was leading them to the exact town He had promised long ago.
Key Verse
And Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the town of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David,Luke 2:4, ESV
Talk About It
What do you think Mary and Joseph talked about on their long walk?
Story Questions
Who made everyone go to their hometown?
Caesar Augustus
Which town did Mary and Joseph go to?
Bethlehem
Why did Joseph go to Bethlehem?
His family came from King David's town
Try This Today
Move your Mary and Joseph figures (or paper cutouts) a little closer to the manger each night until Christmas Eve.
Pray Together
God, you are in charge of the whole world. Thank you for always keeping your promises. Amen.