Scripture
“But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah,
though you are small among the clans of Judah,
out of you will come for me
one who will be ruler over Israel,
whose origins are from of old,
from ancient times.”
Reflection
I have been to modern day Bethlehem and it is still a small town; an ornate and large church sits on top of the cave where Jesus was born. According to historian Dr. Lamont Luker, Joseph was from Bethlehem but living far north in the small town of Nazareth. In order to meet the requirements of a recent call for a government census, Joseph brought his pregnant wife Mary to his parent’s home in Bethlehem. Many family members had come “back home” for the same reason so the small, typical 2-bedroom house was overcrowded. Mary, about to give birth and needing privacy moved into the cave which housed the animals and there the Son of God was born. Thus, a large prophecy was fulfilled in a small place (Ps. Dale).
Thoughts for the day
- What does this passage tell you about Jesus and people?
- In what way did the birth of Jesus impact your life?
- Who can you share this passage with?
Prayer
Follow the ACTS acronym in prayer: Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication (Asking).
