Two Turtledoves

    Ever wonder where the idea of two turtledoves came from in the song the “12 Days of Christmas?” I’m not sure exactly but it is ironic that there is a reference to just that in the Bible. After Jesus was born Mary and Joseph honored the law and brought Him to Jerusalem to offer sacrifice, circumcise Him and dedicate Him to God.

   “And when eight days were accomplished for the circumcising of the child, his name was called JESUS, which was so named of the angel before he was conceived in the womb. And when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were accomplished, they brought him to Jerusalem, to present him to the Lord;  (As it is written in the law of the Lord, Every male that openeth the womb shall be called holy to the Lord;) And to offer a sacrifice according to that which is said in the law of the Lord, A pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons.” -Luke 2:21-24

   This small event sandwiched between His birth and the beginning of His public ministry in the gospel of Luke holds quite a punch. It reflects first of all their obedience to the law of God. With all the turmoil associated with the census and lack of suitable accommodations for His birth it would be easy to just say we can’t make it happen and think God will understand. Well, He douse understand, He understands we are willing at times to let our circumstances deter us from obeying His word. It is easy to find excuses for not following the guidance of the Lord and requires faith and commitment to rise above our situation to fulfill the calling of God in our lives. Remember also that Jesus is God. He is perfect and there is no need of a sin sacrifice on His behalf, however, they knew it was critical that they honor God.    I’m sure Mary and Joseph in those early years had no idea of the impact of the decisions they made regarding the Christ child. Today we look at scripture and see how everything fell into place exactly how the Father intended it to be, yet His parents were able to make the choices that affected His life and future. God did not force them to, yet He knew they would choose the right path. How different things would have been if they had been selfish and not followed the Spirit’s guidance.

   I’m reminded at the impact we can make to the kingdom of God. We are not responsible for raising the Christ child, but we are able to influence lives for God. The decisions we make each day can have a lasting affect on ourselves and others. Selfishness and pride will keep us from doing what is right. We must make every effort to follow the Godly path regardless of the sacrifice on our part. I am sure that once we reach the literal presence of God we will wonder at how or why we could be so selfish. Today we can begin to limit those regrets. Chose to honor God in your life and He will fill you with blessings that you will not be able to hold. God has a plan for your life just as He had for Mary and Joseph. Strive to honor and glorify Him in this new year.