Those who are born in Christ are citizens of heaven. But, we live on earth until the Lord allows us to. The word 'time' has been stressed in many places in the Bible. Luke 1, verse 2, says, 'At that time, Emperor Augustus ordered a census throughout the Roman Empire.' Verse 5 says, 'Joseph went (to Bethlehem in Judaea) to register with Mary.' This incident illustrates that when the time came, he obeyed the law that should be followed at that time. He and his family went to Bethlehem to obey the Roman Emperor's order, fulfilling the prophecy about Jesus the Messiah being born in Bethlehem.
Another incident about time and obedience is seen in verse 22, stating, 'The time came for Mary and Joseph to perform the ceremony of purification, as the law of Moses commanded, so they took the child to present Him to the Lord.' Here, they obeyed God's word in due time. God expects us to obey both earthly government and heavenly rule in due time to fulfill His will for us. Friends, are we, as families, living and leading our families as Joseph and Mary did? Are we dedicated to fulfilling our duties to our country and to our God?
In Matthew 12:17, Jesus says, 'Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's.' May God grant our families the wisdom and guidance to fulfill the words spoken by Jesus. May we give our hearts to Him. When we give the government the taxes we owe, it's expected to take care of its people. Similarly, when we give God our hearts, He will care for them eternally, as His kingdom is eternal. Let's commit our hearts to our heavenly King and never hesitate to submit them to anything of the world or evil. May our hearts always love and serve their King, God Almighty.
Dear God, help us to be good citizens of our country. We offer our hearts completely to you, surrendering them so that you can reign over its wishes, emotions, and feelings. May Your will be done as we submit. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
Wonderful, Praise the Lord