Luke 2:1-7 KJV
1 And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed.
2 (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.)
3 And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city.
4 And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:)
5 To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.
6 And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.
7 And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.

God uses man whether its his people saying yes Lord or the enemies greed.A Census with a taxes requiring eveyone everywhere to return to the country they were from. Everyone packed up and went to there homeland to pay Caesar tax. God used this to get Joseph to his homeland in Bethelehem. I am sure Mary physically would of rather been at home. Here she is on the road probably not dwelling on prophecy, though no doubt she may of known where the baby was to be born. Sure not so ready for that baby to be born in a makeshift shelter or for cradle designed for the Messiah to be. Joseph was a carpenter by trade and there was no room in the inn. It interesting over the years how the picture of manger scene took place but one must remember traveling by tent or makeshift shelter was not unheard of as it is today. The accuracy of the story important because of prophesy. The reenactment, the more comfortable picture overhead does not paint the image of God the Father looking down surrounded by pine trees as the image in Isaiah 60 portraits of the manger scene of a little box for a bed. It is okay. But what not okay to fail to look at scripture and declare the truth. Many of God's people say stable.The reality may be it was harsher the entry in the world of our Savior birth because God willed it into happening, just like getting Joseph to take his wife to Bethelehem. God's way even when we want cushions and comfort.

Dear Heavenly Father you speak words that blind because of man's lies. Yet you use even the lies at times to bring forth faith. May offering of peace of your shine forth in our hearts. In Jesus precious name, Amen.

Continual Scripture Study: Isaiah 60:13-14 KJV
13 The glory of Lebanon shall come unto thee, the fir tree, the pine tree, and the box together, to beautify the place of my sanctuary; and I will make the place of my feet glorious.
14 The sons also of them that afflicted thee shall come bending unto thee; and all they that despised thee shall bow themselves down at the soles of thy feet; and they shall call thee, The city of the LORD, The Zion of the Holy One of Israel.