When reading about the birth of Jesus in Scripture, many people do not realize that Bethlehem was situated within a mile or two of the Herodium, a huge palace fortress built upon a hill for King Herod, who had set himself up as the King of the Jews. Undoubtedly, as Joseph and Mary worked their way toward Bethlehem, their eyes looked frequently to this fortress upon a hill, reminding them of King Herod’s power, glory, and might.
The contrast between Herod and Jesus could not be more stark.
Herod’s fortress and all the wealth and strength it represented was contrasted by the poverty and weakness of Joseph and Mary struggling to make their way to Bethlehem where they were not even able to find a room to sleep in.
Instead, Mary had to give birth to her son in a dirty stable, surrounded by animals, and the only clothing she had for Him were some strips of linen to wrap Him in.
But this is the way of God and His Kingdom.
This Advent season, if you think that you are too poor, too weak, or too insignificant for God to use, remember Joseph, Mary, and Jesus. Their beginnings could not have been more humble. God loves taking the poor, the weak, and the humble people of this world, and using them to bring glory to Himself.
This is an excerpt from A Scripture on Advent: Luke 2:4-7.
This Christmas I preached on the simple complexity of Christ’s arrival. Around the barn, Mary’s virginity & the angel’s announcement to shepherds I wove a theme of God doing the unusual. I now wished I read our post before my message because I was one of the many who did not know about the Herodium. I’ve been preaching for decades but have never read about this before – thanks!
John,
Glad it was helpful. You know where I learned this? From the Ray Vander Laan DVDs
. I wish I could remember which one though…