I can imagine Mary and Joseph likely had some of these same feelings when the angel of the Lord showed up (in a dream, no less!) and told him to high tail it to Egypt. They weren't a very well-off family, and they had a two year old, neither of which I can imagine makes traveling very easy. If I were part of that family, my response would have probably gone something like this- "Ya know, God, right now is not really the best time for a move. Jesus is in the 'terrible twos' and Egypt isn't exactly close! Besides, how would you like us to pay for such a journey?"
But before any of that ever became an issue, God had already provided the way...in the form of gold, frankincense and myrrh. In the Christmas stories we heard growing up, these gifts were delivered to Jesus as a baby by wise men who traveled from the east. But as we look a little closer at the story in the Book of Matthew, we find that the details have been condensed a bit. It likely took some time for these wise men from the east to prepare and make the journey, about two years. They arrive at the house of the little family with their gifts for Jesus just about the same time the family is called to move on out. Ironic? I think not.
God provided the gifts from the wise men exactly when they were needed. He provided what was needed, when it was needed in order that His plan set out at the beginning of all time might be accomplished. And He is still doing it today.
Sure, it would be easier for us if our needs were met a little sooner than the last minute. But, in those moments when you are panicking about how you're going to pay the bills, or eat, or make that crappy situation work, try to remember the truth we learn from the young family of Jesus- God always provides how and when needed in order for His greater plan to take place...and we are all a part of that plan!
