Where We Come From

Where We Come From

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

Where We Come From

Madonna, the popstar who was arguably one of the most famous celebrities of the 1980’s and beyond, grew up in my hometown of Rochester, Michigan. She was in my study hall when I was in the 7th grade. (She’s older than me, in case you were wondering.)

We all come from somewhere – and it’s often surprising when we hear where that somewhere was. It is part of the humanity of Jesus that he came from Bethlehem. Bethlehem, not the biggest and most powerful place to come from, but one of the little clans of Judah. Right from the start, Jesus identified with those who were less powerful. He was born into the town we sing about as being little. Later, we hear stories of stables and mangers – perhaps the ultimate in humble birthplaces.

According to the stories we know best, Jesus did not come into the world as we might imagine the savior of the world would arrive. Instead, we learn that right from the beginning, Jesus was engaged in life with those who were struggling to make it in their world. The joy in that good news is that we can bring him our real problems, whether physical or financial, emotional or spiritual, and trust that he knows what it is to be us.

Reflection Questions:

1) Where do you come from? What effect do you think that has had on your life?

2) Does it matter to you that Jesus was born not to the King, but to Mary and Joseph?

3) Do you think parts of how we look at life today seem counter to the idea that Jesus was born in a stable?

Prayer: Dear God, I am thankful for Jesus, for his birth and his life among humanity – and all that it shows us about your love. Amen