12/21- The People of Bethlehem- Luke 2
6While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born,7and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them… 17When they [the shepherds] had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, 18and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them.
6While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born,7and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them… 17When they [the shepherds] had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, 18and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them.
Thoughts: The people of
Bethlehem were not expectant. In the
busy-ness of the crowd because of the census (and everyone wanting to claim
they were related to David by ancestry), the crowds did not welcome a pregnant
woman, but kicked her out to a shed- an animal stall. Later when the shepherds spread the news, the
people were amazed. There is a little
evidence the people acted on their amazement for Joseph and Mary traditionally
stayed in Bethlehem. The wise men visited in Bethlehem when Jesus was under two
but probably not right after he was born.
We are a very busy people. In our
busy-ness between going to games for the kids or grandkids; events; work;
entertainment and sports- let us decide ahead of time to not miss the most
important use of our time during this season.
Tonight is the longest night of the year (the winter equinox). Psychologists tell us that with the extra darkness and shorter days comes a bit of extra depression and sadness. The Bible says that "the people who walked in darkness and gloom have seen a great light... for unto us a child is born... and He shall be called wonderful counselor, the Mighty God, the Everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace." Even if people are cold, skeptical, or unexpectant, God is still at work in unexpected ways (like through a little baby in a small town in a manger).
Tonight is the longest night of the year (the winter equinox). Psychologists tell us that with the extra darkness and shorter days comes a bit of extra depression and sadness. The Bible says that "the people who walked in darkness and gloom have seen a great light... for unto us a child is born... and He shall be called wonderful counselor, the Mighty God, the Everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace." Even if people are cold, skeptical, or unexpectant, God is still at work in unexpected ways (like through a little baby in a small town in a manger).
Prayer: Lord, give me an
expectant heart and the heart to be amazed at what you do. We remember on this long night those who face extra sadness this time of year.
Activity: What if someone
came to your house at the last minute?
Would you welcome them? Tonight,
do as the Moravians do and set an extra place at your table for Jesus. Next time you bless your food say, “Come Lord
Jesus be our guest and may this food to us be blest.”
Song: [Angels We Have Heard on High]: Come to Bethlehem and
see! Him whose birth the angels
sing. Come adore on bended knee Christ the
Lord of heaven and earth. Gloria! In Excelsis Deo!
Bethlehem at Christmas
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