Devotional 12-6-07

The Words of Micah

But you, O Bethlehem of Ephratah, who are one of the little clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to rule in Israel. Micah 5:2

Although tiny Bethlehem was a city with a proud history, “the city of David” – it was still tiny, not the kind of place where you would expect “lightening to strike twice” – not a location to a second candle to shine forth. One glimpse of glory should be all the place deserved.

Yet, inspired by God, the prophet Micah had foreseen a ruler coming again from David’s tiny town, and in coming the promise of peace in all its fullness – the kind of peace the very angels of the Lord would proclaim on those same sheep-filled hills, surrounded by light.

And even more light would be evident. Micah’s ancient words would guide those strangers from afar, the wise men, to the place where the Christ Child lay.

Candlelight reflected in starlight. Even in such an unlikely place as Bethlehem the circles of light expands.

O little town of Bethlehem, how still we see thee lie!
Above thy deep and dreamless sleep the silent stars go by;
Yet in thy dark streets shineth the everlasting Light.
The hopes and fears of all the years are met in thee tonight.

This Advent, let us circle around those flickering, growing circles of light. Circle around those candles of the Advent Wreath – traditionally named The Prophecy Candle, The Bethlehem Candle, The Shepherd’s Candle, The Angel’s Candle. Let these growing circles of light urge us on –
to Listen
to Prepare
to Behold
to Rejoice!
Amy Inghram