“But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are not the least among the rulers of Judah; for out of you shall come a ruler who will shepherd my people Israel.” (Matthew 2:6, NKJV)

Herod the Great was ruler of Judea at the time of Jesus’ birth, and he didn’t want to hear a rival being prepared to replace him. From the astrologers or magi he learned the time of the new king’s birth, and from the Jewish scholars he learned the place of his birth. He told them to find the place and report back to him so that he too may worship the child. However, the Magi learned his inner motive so after paying homage to the child they took a different route and didn’t report back.

Image courtesy of http://www.olivetree.com

Bethlehem, though a small place so far as population is concerned, yet it shall not be small, or be the least in honor, because the Messiah shall be born there. The birth of Jesus gave the place the honor that cannot be given to bigger and wealthier cities. Since Jesus is a distinguished personage, his birth gave such honor and importance to an insignificant place such as Bethlehem.

In the same way, the coming of Jesus to our lives brings honor and importance no matter how small and insignificant we may be.

References:

MySword for Android. Riversoft Ministry, 2011-2019.

Olive Tree Bible Software. http://www.olivetree.com

Published by Pastorbluejeans Unplugged

Friend of a Jewish Carpenter. View all posts by Pastorbluejeans Unplugged