SUNDAY December 22, 2024
Bethlehem, Birthplace of Our King
Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child.
Luke 2:4-5
Judea was under Roman rule. Caesar Augustus issued a decree that all the known world should be registered. This census took place while Quirinius was governing Syria (Luke 2:1-3). Some scholars believe that the census was ordered for the increased taxation of the people.
Joseph prepared to travel with Mary. They left Galilee to go into Judea, to the city of David––to Bethlehem. The name Bethlehem means, “the house of bread.” The journey took the couple over 90 miles of rough and rugged terrain. Imagine how difficult and harsh this journey must have been for Mary. She was nearing the time of delivery! In fact, she was described as being great with child (Luke 2:5 KJV). Yet they both trusted God, knowing His hand was upon their lives. He was directing them.
The prophet Micah, with pinpoint accuracy, named Bethlehem as Jesus’ birthplace. Bethlehem would be the birthplace of our King! This is where Jesus would be born:
“But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of you shall come forth to Me the One to be Ruler in Israel, whose goings forth are from of old, from everlasting” (Micah 5:2).
When we embark on a journey to follow the Lord, He goes before us and aligns our lives with His purposes and plans. Sometimes we are unaware of His leading. We may become fearful of the unknown. We simply have to take steps of faith as we leave our future all in His hands.
Christmas should be a day when our minds go back to Bethlehem, beyond the noise of our materialistic world, to hear the soft flutter of angels’ wings.
~Billy Graham~
For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!
