[The following devotional was written by Wildwood Community Church Student Pastor Jonathan Holmes and is a part of our 2014 Advent Devotional Guide. We will be posting a devotional each day on this blog between November 30 – December 31, 2014.]
Significance at Insignificant Places by Jonathan Holmes
Read: Micah 5:2–5 (prophecy) & Luke 2:1–6 (fulfillment)
Bethlehem in Judah hardly even carried the rank or status of a country town. It was located about five miles southwest of Jerusalem. It was so small that in both Joshua 15 and Nehemiah 11, it is overlooked in the listing of cities in Judah. The wording in Micah 5:2, “small among the clans of Judah,” gives the impression of a village with the least amount of worldly significance. To say the least, Bethlehem was an insignificant place, but some incredibly significant things happened in Bethlehem.
It was in Bethlehem that David was called by King Saul and eventually went on to fight the giant Goliath. Even though small, some significant historical events happened in Bethlehem. The most significant being the birthplace of our Savior Jesus Christ.
When God sent His Son as a helpless little infant, there was no giant throne waiting for Him or huge celebration that all of Judah would attend. Jesus came to earth silently and humbly. He came to earth like every other human being, as a tiny baby. He was entirely dependent on loving and caring parents. God took on flesh not to show us how God should act in this world, but to show us how a man can live in humble obedience to God. God often chooses insignificant people and events to bring about His great purposes. God loves to show His strength through human weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9). It does not matter whether you are an artist, scholar, athlete or writer; He is going to use you if you are willing to be obedient to Him.
Even when you think you are so insignificant and could never be used by God, He will use you. God values you even when the world sees you as insignificant.
Question
- Why do you think God would choose a place of no significant value to allow Christ to be born in?
Advent Prayers
- Ask God to help use the talents and abilities that He has given you to have impact for His kingdom.
- Thank God for His faithfulness in your life to use you, and for sending Christ into the world.