en_obs-tn/content/23/04.md

When the time was near for Mary to give birth

That is, "When it was near the end of Mary's pregnancy."

Roman government

Rome had conquered and ruled over Israel at this time.

for a census

That is, "to be counted for the government record" or, "so that the government could write their names on a list" or, "to be counted by the government." This census was probably made for the purpose of taxing the people.