Long ago, in the dusty village of Bethlehem, a new life came into the world—a world
that would be changed forever. On that silent night more than two thousand years ago, the light of a new star shone on the fields, the walkways, and stables of Bethlehem. Not everyone knew or recognized this radiant fulfillment of ancient prophecy. But then, as well as now, those who truly looked heavenward, were led to the Light of the World.
And they found him in Bethlehem. Once the birthplace of King David, Bethlehem was
no longer home to royalty, and by all worldly standards, it was humble. And yet, the King of Kings was born there.
So, Mary, “great with child,”1 and Joseph, traveled 90 long, uncomfortable miles from
Nazareth to their ancestral home of Bethlehem where they were to be taxed. By the time they arrived, there was no room for them in the inns. So, in a stable for animals, Mary “brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger.”2 Emmanuel, meaning “God with us,”3 was born in what would otherwise be considered an insignificant Judean town. But Bethlehem in Hebrew means “house of bread”, and so Jesus came as the Bread of Life to a hungry world. He came as Living Water to quench the thirst of all honest seekers. He came to lift souls and spread joy, as the Prince of Peace. And today, as then, he reigns in the hearts of all who truly know Him.
The life and love, mercy and hope brought into the world by the babe of Bethlehem
will live forever.
Program #3980
1 Luke 2:5
2 Luke 2:7
3 Matthew 1:23