Scripture
5 “In Bethlehem in Judea,” they replied, “for this is what the prophet has written:
6 “‘But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah,
are by no means least among the rulers of Judah;
for out of you will come a ruler
who will shepherd my people Israel.’”
Reflection
In this passage, the chief priests and scribes (the modern day religious leaders whom Jesus would later criticize) told King Herod that the Christ, the messiah whom they had been waiting for, was born in Bethlehem, fulfilling a prophecy from Micah. This is one of the great ironies of Christ’s birth story – that the savior of mankind was born of humble and lowly origins.
God is glorified through the humble and lowly. The world may see us as without value, but God will use us for His glory. Just as Bethlehem would “by no means be the least among” the tribes of Israel because of His plan for that otherwise obscure town, God will also make His love and power manifest through us as we humbly submit to Him.
Humility in Christ is strength. God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble (I Peter 5:5). God guides the humble in what is right, and teaches them his way (Psalm 25:9).
God crowns the humble with salvation (Psalm 149:4). Therefore, let us be to God’s plan as Bethlehem was to God’s salvation story: let us be open to God working in us – not despite but because of our humility (Charlie).
Thoughts for the day
- What does this passage tell you about God, Jesus and man?
- What do you feel God is telling you through these passages?
- How can you apply this message in an area of your life that needs transformation?
- Is there anyone you can share this message with?
Prayer
Ask God to deliver you from your troubles to protect you from the evil one and deliver you from temptation.
