“As for you, Bethlehem of Ephrathah, though you are the least significant of Judah’s forces, one who is to be a ruler in Israel on my behalf will come out from you. His origin is from remote times, from ancient days.” Micah 5:2 (Common English Bible)
Mary and Joseph lived in Nazareth, but the prophecy in Micah 5:2 said the Messiah would be born in Bethlehem. God moved Caesar Augustus, the Roman emperor, to issue a decree that a census would be taken of everyone in the Roman world. Joseph was required to register in Bethlehem, so Mary and Joseph made the journey there. While they were in Bethlehem, the baby Jesus was born, fulfilling the prophecy in Micah. Don’t you just love watching the sovereignty of God at work?!
One of the most remarkable aspects of the Messiah’s birth was the humble circumstances of His arrival. The birth itself took place in a stable. Jesus’ first bed was a manger, a feeding trough for animals. The birth announcement was given, not to the Bethlehem Daily News, but to lowly shepherds watching their sheep. Jesus came for all people. No one is too insignificant to be included in God’s plan of salvation.
After Jesus’ birth, an angel appeared to some shepherds who were in the field watching their flocks and said, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.” (Luke 2:10b-11) Then a great company of angels appeared, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” (Luke 2:14)
The shepherds searched until they found the baby Jesus, and they worshiped Him. They they spread the word about His birth.
God sent a special star to guide some wise men from afar to the baby Jesus. They brought gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh to the baby.
In these scenes, we see different responses to the coming of Jesus. The shepherds responded to the announcement of the angel by seeking Jesus until they found Him. Then they worshiped Him. Afterward they shared this amazing news with others.
The wise men brought gifts. Giving is a part of worship. It expresses gratitude for all that God has given us. It has been well said that we can give without loving, but we cannot love without giving.
Herod sought to kill Jesus, and there is much opposition to Him in our world today. The religious leaders paid no attention to Jesus. They made no effort to find Him. So we have possible responses to His coming of opposition, indifference, seeking Jesus, worshiping Jesus, giving Jesus gifts, and telling others about Jesus. How have you responded?
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