One of the most important questions to ask of any faith or belief-system is, "Is it true?" Luke had no interest in writing fiction; he wanted to present an accurate account of the character, life and mission of Jesus, based on first-hand, eye witness evidence (Luke 1:1-4). All the events surrounding the birth of Jesus must have been so etched in Mary's memory that she could give a very detailed and personal description.

The Roman census was an important event, anchoring the birth of Jesus Christ into history.  And we know that Luke was very careful to relate the incarnation to what was known at the time.   However Quirinius became governor of Syria 10 years later in AD6, taking a census which sparked a revolt (Acts 5:37).  We know that Quirinius had a roving brief for the Emperor before taking the post in Syria (under which jurisdiction Judea came), and may have been the census official of the earlier census in 4BC.  Also, scholars say that the word 'first' census may also be translated as 'before' the census when Quirinius was governor of Syria.  Either way, Luke was careful to give us the official reason why Jesus' birth was in Bethlehem.

However the main reason for the journey was that His birthplace was chosen by God. The Old Testament prophecies told of the Messiah being a Son of David, and being born in Bethlehem (Micah 5:2). But neither Mary nor Joseph had planned the 90 mile (145 km) journey in late pregnancy. It was certainly not convenient even if it had been theologically essential. It was one of those situations in which God took a hand, using the secular government census to get His people in the right place at the right time.

Because God is always in charge of His kingdom, He can use any means He wants, to ensure that His will is done. Even when we may think that the circumstances are working against us, God is working for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28). God's great power, combined with His foreknowledge and wisdom will always achieve His purposes. In retrospect it often amazes us to see how God has used apparently unrelated circumstances to place us where He wants us, and to bring mercy and grace at just the right time. Therefore, we should not be surprised, and should trust Him, that whatever He allows is His choice to bring about whatever He desires. Wise believers will praise when they cannot understand, and will wait in confidence to see how the Lord will unfold His plans. The unwise will try to engineer life to suit their plans, and often suffer the consequences of resisting His will. And don't forget that the Lord may use you to strengthen another believer at work by reminding them of this truth.