Where Was Jesus Born? The True Story of Bethlehem According to the Bible
More than 2,000 years ago, a tiny town in Judea became the center of history. The Bible tells us that Jesus Christ — the Son of God — was born in Bethlehem. But why there? Let's uncover the story of His birthplace, the prophecy that foretold it, and what it still means for believers today.
Written by The Study Bible Team
📖 What Does the Bible Say About Jesus' Birthplace?
The story of Jesus' birth is found in both the Gospel of Matthew and the Gospel of Luke. According to Luke 2:4–7, Joseph and Mary traveled from Nazareth to Bethlehem because of a Roman census that required everyone to register in their ancestral town.
"So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary... While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son." — Luke 2:4–7 (NIV)
Jesus was born in a humble manger because there was no room in the inn. This moment fulfilled ancient prophecies spoken hundreds of years earlier.
The Two Gospel Accounts
While both Matthew and Luke agree on Bethlehem as Jesus' birthplace, they approach the story from different perspectives. Luke provides detailed historical context, mentioning the census under Quirinius, governor of Syria, which brought Joseph and Mary to Bethlehem. Matthew, writing primarily for a Jewish audience, emphasizes how Jesus' birth in Bethlehem fulfilled Old Testament prophecy.
Matthew's account begins with the genealogy of Jesus, establishing His royal lineage from King David, then moves directly to the announcement of Mary's pregnancy. Unlike Luke, Matthew doesn't describe the journey to Bethlehem but assumes the reader knows Jesus was born there. Instead, Matthew focuses on events after the birth, including the visit of the Magi and Herod's massacre of infants.
These complementary accounts give us a fuller picture of the significance of Bethlehem in God's salvation plan. Luke emphasizes Jesus' identification with humanity through the humble circumstances of His birth, while Matthew highlights Jesus' messianic credentials as the promised King from David's line.
The Historical Context of the Census
The census mentioned in Luke's Gospel has been the subject of much historical discussion. Luke specifies that this was "the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria" (Luke 2:2). Historical records confirm that Publius Sulpicius Quirinius served as legate of Syria from 6-7 AD and conducted a famous census in 6 AD, which sparked a revolt led by Judas the Galilean.
However, this timeline presents a challenge since most scholars place Herod the Great's death around 4 BC, meaning Jesus would have been born before this date. Several theories attempt to resolve this apparent discrepancy. Some suggest Quirinius may have served an earlier term in Syria, or that the census was part of a longer registration process that began under Herod's reign. Others propose that "first" might be translated as "prior" referring to a census before the well-known one in 6 AD.
Regardless of these historical questions, Luke's emphasis on the census serves an important theological purpose: it shows how God used a secular Roman decree to fulfill His prophetic word, bringing the Messiah to His appointed birthplace.
🔮 The Prophecy of Bethlehem — Micah 5:2
Long before Jesus was born, the prophet Micah predicted His birthplace:
"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
This prophecy declared that the Messiah — the eternal ruler — would come from Bethlehem. This small town, though insignificant in size, was chosen for a divine purpose. It symbolized humility, peace, and the fulfillment of God's promise.
Understanding Micah's Prophecy in Context
Micah delivered this prophecy during a turbulent period in Israel's history, around the 8th century BC. The northern kingdom of Israel was facing imminent destruction by Assyria, and Judah faced similar threats. In this context of political instability and spiritual decline, Micah's message of a coming ruler from Bethlehem would have brought hope to God's people.
The prophecy specifically mentions "Bethlehem Ephrathah" to distinguish it from another Bethlehem in Zebulun (Joshua 19:15). Ephrathah was the ancient name for the region around Bethlehem, and it connects back to the family of David (Ruth 4:11). This detail reinforces the Davidic connection of the coming Messiah.
The description of the ruler's origins being "from of old, from ancient times" points to the Messiah's eternal, divine nature. This wasn't to be an ordinary human king but one whose existence predated His physical birth in Bethlehem.
Other Prophecies Connected to Bethlehem
While Micah 5:2 is the most direct prophecy about the Messiah's birthplace, other Old Testament passages connect to Bethlehem's significance:
Jeremiah 23:5-6 speaks of a "righteous Branch" from David's line who would reign as king. Though not mentioning Bethlehem by name, this prophecy reinforces the Davidic connection that Bethlehem represents.
Isaiah 11:1 refers to a "shoot from the stump of Jesse" - Jesse being David's father who lived in Bethlehem. This imagery of new growth from what appears dead or insignificant perfectly captures Bethlehem's role in salvation history.
Ruth 4:11-22, while not a prophetic text per se, establishes Bethlehem as the hometown of David and his ancestors. The book of Ruth concludes with a genealogy that leads from Perez to David, setting the stage for the greater Son of David who would come from the same town.
How the Jewish People Understood Micah's Prophecy
By the first century, Micah's prophecy was widely recognized as referring to the Messiah. When Herod asked the chief priests and teachers of the law where the Messiah was to be born, they immediately quoted Micah 5:2 (Matthew 2:5-6).
The Targums (Aramaic paraphrases of the Hebrew Scriptures) and other Jewish writings from the period confirm this messianic interpretation. For example, the Targum Jonathan renders Micah 5:2 with explicit messianic language: "From you shall come forth before me the Messiah, to exercise dominion over Israel."
This widespread expectation makes it remarkable that when Jesus, who fulfilled these prophecies, actually came, many religious leaders failed to recognize Him. Their understanding of prophecy was filtered through expectations of a political liberator rather than a suffering servant.
🌍 Where Is Bethlehem Located?
Bethlehem lies about 6 miles (9 kilometers) south of Jerusalem in the region of Judea. In Hebrew, the name "Bethlehem" means "House of Bread." That's symbolic, because Jesus later called Himself the Bread of Life (John 6:35). God's choice of Bethlehem shows His perfect design — from geography to meaning.
During Jesus' time, Bethlehem was a small farming village surrounded by shepherd fields. Today, it's a city in the West Bank and home to the historic Church of the Nativity, which marks the traditional site of Jesus' birth.
Geography and Climate of Bethlehem
Bethlehem sits at an elevation of about 775 meters (2,543 feet) above sea level, in the hill country of Judea. This location gives it a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and cool, rainy winters. The surrounding landscape features terraced hillsides that have been cultivated for centuries with olives, grapes, and other crops.
The town's proximity to Jerusalem made it significant despite its small size. Being only a few hours' walk from the capital city, Bethlehem was connected to Jerusalem's economic and religious life while maintaining its own identity as David's city.
Archaeological evidence shows that Bethlehem has been continuously inhabited since at least the Canaanite period (around 3000 BC). Its original name appears to have been Ephrath or Ephrathah, as seen in Genesis 35:19 and 48:7, where Rachel is buried "on the way to Ephrath (that is, Bethlehem)."
Bethlehem in the Old Testament
Long before Jesus' birth, Bethlehem played significant roles in Israel's history:
Rachel's Burial - The matriarch Rachel, Jacob's beloved wife, died giving birth to Benjamin and was buried "on the way to Ephrath (that is, Bethlehem)" (Genesis 35:19). Her tomb, located at the northern entrance to Bethlehem, remains a sacred site to this day.
The Story of Ruth - Much of the book of Ruth takes place in Bethlehem. After tragedy strikes Naomi's family in Moab, she returns to Bethlehem with her Moabite daughter-in-law Ruth. It's in Bethlehem's fields that Ruth meets Boaz, and their marriage produces Obed, the grandfather of David. This story highlights God's providence working through seemingly ordinary events in a small town.
David's Anointing - The prophet Samuel came to Bethlehem to anoint the future king of Israel from among Jesse's sons. Despite Jesse presenting seven of his sons, Samuel knew none was God's choice. Only when David, the youngest who was tending sheep, was brought forward did God indicate He had chosen him (1 Samuel 16:1-13).
Bethlehem's Significance in Jewish Tradition
By the first century, Bethlehem held a special place in Jewish consciousness as David's city. Though it remained a relatively small settlement compared to Jerusalem, its Davidic connection gave it symbolic importance.
After the Babylonian exile, Bethlehem was repopulated by returning Jews (Ezra 2:21; Nehemiah 7:26). During the intertestamental period, it was fortified by the Hasmonean rulers and later benefited from Herod the Great's building projects in Judea.
The association with David made Bethlehem a natural focus for messianic expectations. Since the Messiah was to be David's descendant (2 Samuel 7:12-16; Isaiah 9:7), many expected that He would have connections to David's hometown, as Micah specifically prophesied.
🚶 The Journey to Bethlehem
Mary and Joseph's journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem was nearly 90 miles (145 kilometers) — a difficult trip on rough terrain. Mary was pregnant, and they likely traveled by foot or with a donkey. When they arrived, every inn was full due to the census. Yet in that humble stable, surrounded by animals and straw, the Savior of the world was born.
"She gave birth to her firstborn son, wrapped him in swaddling clothes and laid him in a manger." — Luke 2:7
This humble beginning revealed that God values humility over grandeur. Jesus came not as a king in a palace but as a servant in simplicity.
The Route from Nazareth to Bethlehem
The most direct route from Nazareth to Bethlehem would have taken Mary and Joseph south through the Jezreel Valley, then along the western side of the Jordan River. This journey would typically take 3-4 days for a caravan, but likely longer for a pregnant woman.
Travelers in first-century Palestine typically covered 15-20 miles per day on foot. The route would have taken them through Samaritan territory, which many Jews avoided due to longstanding tensions. Alternatively, they might have taken the longer route through the Jordan Valley, which was flatter but hotter.
The journey would have been physically demanding and potentially dangerous, with risks from bandits, wild animals, and the elements. Mary's advanced pregnancy would have added significant difficulty and concern.
Cultural and Social Aspects of the Journey
Mary and Joseph's journey occurred in the context of Jewish family and tribal obligations. Roman censuses typically required people to register in their place of origin for tax purposes. Joseph, being from the house and line of David, needed to go to Bethlehem, David's city.
Women were not typically required to register for Roman censuses, so Mary's presence suggests either that the census procedures were different in client kingdoms like Herod's, or that Joseph didn't want to leave Mary behind in her condition, or that Mary herself had Davidic ancestry.
The journey during Mary's pregnancy also raises questions about the timing. Some scholars suggest they may have traveled earlier in her pregnancy and stayed in Bethlehem until Jesus was born. Others propose that God's timing was precise, with the birth occurring exactly when they arrived.
The "No Room in the Inn" Reality
The Greek word translated "inn" (kataluma) in Luke 2:7 can refer to a guest room or lodging place, not necessarily a commercial inn. In first-century Jewish homes, the main living area was often on an upper level, with a lower level serving as a stable area where animals were brought in at night.
With Bethlehem crowded due to the census, the guest room in whatever home Joseph had hoped to stay in was already occupied. The family may have been offered space in the lower level where animals were kept, which would explain the manger (feeding trough) being used as Jesus' first bed.
This interpretation aligns with what we know of Middle Eastern hospitality customs, where even crowded households would find some space for travelers, especially those with urgent needs.
👑 Why Bethlehem Was Chosen by God
God could have chosen any city — Jerusalem (the religious center), or Rome (the empire's capital). But He chose Bethlehem, the City of David, to fulfill prophecy and demonstrate humility.
- Prophetic Fulfillment: Bethlehem was where King David was born, linking Jesus to the royal lineage (Luke 1:32).
- Symbolic Meaning: "House of Bread" — Jesus, the Bread of Life, was born there to feed the world spiritually.
- Divine Humility: God revealed His glory in a place the world would least expect.
Theological Significance of Bethlehem
Bethlehem's selection reveals important aspects of God's character and His redemptive plan:
God's Faithfulness - By fulfilling the specific prophecy of Micah 5:2, God demonstrated His faithfulness to His word. What He promises, He accomplishes, often in ways that surprise human expectations.
God's Inversion of Human Values - The choice of an insignificant village rather than a great city shows that God's ways are not our ways (Isaiah 55:8-9). Throughout Scripture, God consistently chooses the weak, small, and insignificant to accomplish His purposes (1 Corinthians 1:27-29).
The Scandal of Particularity - Bethlehem represents what theologians call the "scandal of particularity" - God's choice to work through specific people, places, and events in history rather than through general philosophical principles. This emphasizes that Christianity is rooted in historical reality.
Contrast With Expectations of the Messiah
Many first-century Jews expected the Messiah to come with political power and military might, liberating Israel from Roman occupation. The humble circumstances of Jesus' birth in Bethlehem challenged these expectations from the very beginning.
While Bethlehem was David's city, it was not a place of current political significance. David's dynasty had not ruled for centuries, and Bethlehem was overshadowed by nearby Jerusalem. The Messiah's connection to Bethlehem pointed to renewal of David's line, but not necessarily in the way people expected.
Jesus' birth in Bethlehem, followed by His upbringing in Nazareth (another insignificant town), established a pattern of humility and identification with the common people that characterized His entire ministry.
Bethlehem as a Pattern for Christian Ministry
The Bethlehem story establishes principles that would characterize Jesus' ministry and the Christian mission that followed:
Identification With the Lowly - By being born in humble circumstances, Jesus identified with the poor and marginalized, a theme that would continue throughout His ministry (Luke 4:18; Matthew 11:5).
Unexpected Revelation - God's greatest revelation came not in spectacular displays of power but in the vulnerability of a newborn baby. This pattern continues in the Christian teaching that God's power is made perfect in weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9).
Universal Significance Through Particular Means - The Savior born in a small Judean town would bring salvation to the whole world, showing how God uses specific locations and cultures to accomplish universal purposes.
🌠 The Shepherds and Angels — Witnesses of Glory
On that same night, shepherds watching their flocks near Bethlehem saw a bright light — an angel announcing the birth of the Savior.
"Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people... Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord." — Luke 2:10–11
The shepherds hurried to find the baby and spread the news everywhere. The first people to witness the Messiah were simple shepherds — showing again that God's message is for the humble and faithful.
The Significance of Shepherds as First Witnesses
In first-century Jewish society, shepherds occupied a low social position. Their work made them ceremonially unclean according to religious laws, and their constant absence from community life made them socially marginalized. Yet God chose these humble workers as the first witnesses to the Messiah's birth.
This choice continues the theme of reversal that runs through the Christmas story. The shepherds' inclusion demonstrates that the gospel is for all people, regardless of social status. It also echoes David, who was tending sheep when Samuel anointed him king.
Some scholars suggest these may have been shepherds caring for temple flocks. The Mishnah mentions sheep raised in the Bethlehem area for temple sacrifices. If so, there's profound symbolism in shepherds who cared for sacrificial lambs being the first to see the Lamb of God.
The Angelic Announcement and Its Meaning
The angel's message to the shepherds contains rich theological content:
"Good news of great joy" - The Greek word for "good news" (euangelion) is the same word later used for the gospel. From the beginning, Jesus' birth is presented as joyful, world-changing news.
"For all the people" - The salvation brought by Jesus is universal in scope, though it would first be offered to the Jewish people.
"A Savior has been born to you" - The title "Savior" was used for gods and emperors in the Roman world, but here it's applied to a newborn baby in humble circumstances.
"Christ the Lord" - "Christ" means "Anointed One" (Messiah), and "Lord" (Kyrios) was used in the Greek Old Testament to translate God's sacred name YHWH. This combination affirms Jesus' messianic identity and divine authority.
The Shepherds' Response and Testimony
The shepherds' immediate response to the angelic announcement demonstrates genuine faith. They didn't hesitate or question the extraordinary message but went "with haste" to find the baby (Luke 2:16).
After seeing Jesus, they became the first evangelists, spreading the word about what they had witnessed. Luke notes that "all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds told them" (Luke 2:18). Their testimony, despite their low social status, was received with wonder.
The shepherds returned to their work "glorifying and praising God" (Luke 2:20). Their encounter with the newborn Messiah transformed their ordinary lives into occasions for worship. This pattern of encounter, testimony, and worship establishes a model for Christian response to the gospel.
⭐ The Visit of the Magi
While not part of the actual birth narrative, the visit of the Magi shortly after Jesus' birth further confirms Bethlehem as the Messiah's birthplace and reveals the global significance of His coming.
"After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem and asked, 'Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.'" — Matthew 2:1-2
Who Were the Magi?
The Magi were likely astrologers or wise men from Persia or Babylon. The term "Magi" originally referred to a priestly class in ancient Persia, known for their wisdom, astronomy, and interpretation of dreams. By the first century, the term was used more broadly for various kinds of wise men and astrologers.
Their journey from the East to worship Jesus demonstrates that the Messiah's birth has significance beyond Israel. As Gentiles, the Magi represent the nations who would come to worship the God of Israel through Jesus.
The traditional number of three Magi comes from the three gifts mentioned, but the Bible doesn't specify how many there were. Their identification as kings in later tradition comes from Old Testament passages like Psalm 72:10-11 and Isaiah 60:3, which speak of kings coming to worship the Messiah.
The Star of Bethlehem
The star that guided the Magi has been the subject of much speculation. Various theories propose it was a comet, a supernova, a planetary conjunction, or a miraculous phenomenon.
In 7 BC, there was a rare triple conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn in the constellation Pisces, which would have been significant to ancient astrologers. Jupiter was associated with kingship, Saturn with Palestine, and Pisces with Israel. In 5 BC, Chinese records note a "guest star" (possibly a nova or supernova) that was visible for months.
Whatever its nature, the star functioned as a divine sign guiding Gentiles to the Jewish Messiah. It shows how God can use creation to testify to His redemptive work and reach people through means they understand.
Theological Significance of the Magi's Visit
The Magi's visit reveals several important theological truths:
Universal Scope of Salvation - From the beginning, Jesus was recognized as Savior not only for Jews but for all peoples. The Magi as Gentiles prefigure the inclusion of the nations in God's kingdom.
Recognition of Jesus' Kingship - The Magi's question about the "king of the Jews" and their gifts, especially gold (a royal gift), acknowledge Jesus' kingship from His infancy.
Contrast With Herod - The Gentile Magi seek to worship Jesus, while Herod, the Jewish king, seeks to kill Him. This contrast foreshadows the mixed reception Jesus would receive throughout His ministry.
Worship Through Giving - The gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh not only provided practical help for Jesus' family but carried symbolic meaning pointing to His identity as king, priest, and sacrifice.
🕊️ Bethlehem Today — The Church of the Nativity
Today, Bethlehem is visited by millions of Christians each year. The Church of the Nativity, built in the 4th century by Emperor Constantine's mother Helena, still stands over the site believed to be the cave where Jesus was born.
Pilgrims kneel at the silver star marking the exact spot of His birth, reflecting on how a simple place changed the course of the world.
History of the Church of the Nativity
The first church on the site was commissioned by Constantine the Great around 326 AD, following the visit of his mother Helena to the Holy Land. According to tradition, local Christians pointed her to a cave venerated as Jesus' birthplace.
The original Constantinian basilica was destroyed during the Samaritan Revolts in the 6th century. The current structure was rebuilt by Emperor Justinian in 565 AD, making it one of the oldest continuously operating churches in the world.
Despite various conquests and changes of rule, the church has remained largely intact for over 1,400 years. In 2012, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing its outstanding universal value.
Architectural Features and Significance
The Church of the Nativity follows a typical basilica plan with a nave and four aisles separated by columns. The original floor mosaics from the Constantinian church can still be seen through trapdoors in the current floor.
The Grotto of the Nativity, located beneath the church, is a cave traditionally identified as the site of Jesus' birth. A silver star embedded in the marble floor marks the exact spot, inscribed with the Latin words "Hic de Virgine Maria Jesus Christus natus est" ("Here Jesus Christ was born of the Virgin Mary").
Adjacent to the Grotto of the Nativity is the Chapel of the Manger, which commemorates the location where Mary placed Jesus in the manger. The original manger was reportedly taken to Rome as a relic, but a replica remains in the chapel.
Bethlehem in Modern Times
Today, Bethlehem is a Palestinian city in the West Bank with a population of about 25,000 people. While its Christian population has declined in recent decades, it remains an important center of Palestinian Christianity.
The economy of modern Bethlehem is heavily dependent on religious tourism, with thousands of pilgrims visiting each year, especially during the Christmas season. The city celebrates Christmas according to three different calendars: December 25 (Catholic and Protestant), January 6 (Armenian), and January 7 (Orthodox).
Despite political challenges and conflicts in the region, Bethlehem continues to symbolize hope and peace for Christians worldwide. Its ongoing significance testifies to the enduring impact of the events that occurred there two millennia ago.
💡 Lessons from Bethlehem
- God works through small beginnings. Bethlehem was a small town, yet it hosted the greatest event in history.
- Humility leads to glory. Jesus' birth in a manger teaches us that true greatness is found in humility.
- God's promises never fail. Micah's prophecy came true precisely — proving God's Word is trustworthy.
Spiritual Applications for Today's Believers
The Bethlehem story offers practical spiritual lessons for Christians today:
Trusting God's Timing and Methods - Like Mary and Joseph, we may find ourselves in confusing or difficult circumstances that don't match our expectations. The Bethlehem story encourages us to trust that God is working out His purposes even when we can't see the full picture.
Valuing Humility - In a world that celebrates power, wealth, and status, the humble circumstances of Jesus' birth challenge us to reevaluate our values. True significance comes not from worldly recognition but from alignment with God's purposes.
Recognizing God in the Ordinary - The shepherds discovered the extraordinary in the most ordinary of settings. This reminds us to be attentive to God's presence and work in the everyday moments of our lives.
Embracing God's Surprises - No one expected the Messiah to be born in a stable. God often works in ways that surprise and challenge our expectations, inviting us to expand our understanding of how He operates.
Bethlehem in Christian Worship and Tradition
Throughout church history, Bethlehem has held a central place in Christian worship, art, and tradition:
Christmas Celebration - The celebration of Christmas, while not biblically mandated, developed as a way to commemorate Jesus' birth in Bethlehem. The date of December 25 was established in the 4th century, possibly to Christianize pagan winter festivals.
Nativity Scenes - St. Francis of Assisi created the first living nativity scene in 1223 to help people visualize the Bethlehem story. This tradition continues in homes and churches worldwide during the Christmas season.
Christmas Carols - Many beloved Christmas carols focus on Bethlehem, such as "O Little Town of Bethlehem," written by Phillips Brooks in 1868 after visiting the town. These songs help keep the story alive in Christian consciousness.
Liturgical Commemoration - In liturgical churches, the Bethlehem story is read and reflected upon during the Christmas season, keeping its message fresh for each generation.
🙏 Final Thoughts — What Bethlehem Teaches Us Today
Bethlehem reminds us that God's power is not limited by our circumstances. He can bring salvation from the smallest and most unexpected places. The story of Jesus' birth isn't just a history lesson — it's a message of hope, humility, and divine love.
When you think of Bethlehem, remember: God chose the ordinary to bring forth the extraordinary. He can do the same in your life too.
"For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given..." — Isaiah 9:6
The Continuing Relevance of Bethlehem
Two thousand years later, the story of Bethlehem continues to speak powerfully to the human condition:
Hope for the Humble - In a world where the powerful often dominate, Bethlehem announces that God champions the cause of the humble. Those who feel overlooked or insignificant can find hope in a Savior who entered the world in the most unassuming circumstances.
Certainty in God's Faithfulness - The precise fulfillment of Micah's prophecy in Bethlehem assures us that God keeps His promises. This gives us confidence that His other promises—including the promise of Christ's return—will likewise be fulfilled.
A Model for Mission - The Bethlehem story challenges the church to emulate Jesus' example of humility, identification with the marginalized, and willingness to work through seemingly insignificant means to accomplish God's purposes.
An Invitation to Wonder - However familiar the story becomes, it never loses its capacity to inspire wonder: the Creator of the universe entered human history as a vulnerable baby in a small town. This mystery continues to captivate hearts and transform lives.
Personal Response to the Bethlehem Story
The various responses to Jesus' birth in Bethlehem—Mary's pondering, the shepherds' proclamation, Herod's hostility, the Magi's worship—invite us to consider our own response to Christ.
Will we, like Mary, treasure these things in our hearts? Like the shepherds, will we enthusiastically share the good news? Like the Magi, will we offer our best in worship? Or will we, like Herod, feel threatened by this King whose kingdom challenges our own?
The story that began in Bethlehem continues today wherever people encounter Jesus Christ. May we, like that little town two millennia ago, become vessels through which God's love and salvation are made known to the world.
