Bethlehem
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Bethlehem
by Suzanne Benner
“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??? (Micah 5:2).
Bethlehem – on a clear day it can be seen from Jerusalem. Set on dry, dusty hills, Bethlehem now hides behind a wall, the security fence Israel is building around the West Bank.
Residents of Bethlehem struggle for their existence. Shop keepers in the market tells us that business is poor, since not many tourists want to visit during these unsettled times. The thick layer of dust that covers the nativity sets carved of olive wood emphasizes their point.
Small and insignificant in Mary and Joseph’s day, Bethlehem once again slides into obscurity because of current political unrest.
Yet, our Messiah was born in Bethlehem.
God chose a small town for the birth place of the King.
God chose an animal’s manger as the first bed for the Savior.
God decided that lowly shepherds should be the first to hear the good news.
Let all those in meager circumstances rejoice because God chooses the weak, the lowly and the despised things to reveal His glory.
As believers, we don’t hope in the things of this world – money, status, influence. Rather, our hope is in the Maker of this world. This Christmas let us remember the choices God made and be like – minded.
About the Author
This devotional was written by Suzanne Benner. Read more about Suzanne: http://www.talk.thelife.com/authors/suzanne-benner/
Going Deeper
1. Consider these questions: What other examples are there in Scripture of God choosing things or people who are lowly in man’s opinion? How can you honor those the world rejects this Christmas?
2. Comment on the devotional blog. Interact with others who are reading today’s devotional. Visit http://talk.thelife.com/ and double click on “Comment??? (just under the devotional title).
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4. Related reading
The big picture of Christmas: http://www.secretsofsuccess.com/devotionals/promises/1654.html
Copyright
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Thank you for sharing about Bethlehem and our Saviour’s humble beginnings. Father, thank You for creating so much beauty…it is all around us. Open our eyes and ears that we can see and hear. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Thanks for reminding me that God has created me for simple things. Sometimes I wish I were more educated, more gifted, and more wealthy. But deep down I know I am where God wants me. He knows what is best for me.
Father, Thank you for a simple life which keeps me in perfect peace. I love you!
yeah..money , fame are uselss if we lost our soul..nothing is more important than u LORd..your everything to me… LORD Jesus..IM so deedly in lOVe you..O ..LOrd…Jesus come….Be my lOVEr …BE my KING……