By Not Known
“But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the
clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over
Israel whose origins are from of old, from ancient times.” Micah 5:2
Christmas is a joyous season for celebration – a great reminder of our loving Father who has given His Son to save the world from sins and sorrows. Christmas season is an excellent opportunity to share the good news of the extraordinary birth of the Lord Jesus to everyone. Through the message of Micah, we learn anew who our Saviour is.
The prophet, Micah prophesied messages of doom and hope to Israel during the period between King Jotham and King Hezekiah, a period when Assyrian empire was rising to power. Israel had continually performed acts of idolatry and injustice towards her own people – the rich oppressing the poor, corruption of magistrates, self-serving prophets and priests. The judgment was upon their failures to obey the Covenantal laws, and the failed leadership.
Although Israel deserved the punishment, she was saved by the Davidic Covenant, God had promised that a descendant of David will come and save the nation. In the messages of hope for the remnants who trusted in God, Micah prophesied that a ruler, the Messiah will be born in the least, unknown town – Bethlehem. The Apostle Matthew in Mt 2:1, 6 confirmed that the prophecy was fulfilled in Jesus’ birth, “After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem.” The Messiah whom Micah foretold is a just and caring Ruler of Israel, unlike the oppressors and self-serving leaders. He comes to save the world from sins and shame and He will reign forever.
Jesus will shepherd His flock, providing every need including spiritual food and protection (Micah 5:4 affirmed in John 10 and Heb 13:20). His flock will live in security from Satan, promised by Jesus in Mt 12:22-29. He will extend the kingdom to the ends of the earth (Mt 28:19-20). He will give His people eternal life and no one can snatch them out of His hands (John 10:28). This is the Messiah who searched us out of the world of sins and love us unconditionally. Hallelujah, praise the Lord. We have a loving and caring Shepherd who live in our hearts by His Spirit. What would we say to the Lord Jesus as we celebrate His birth?