In The Strength Of The LORD

Now you are walled around with a wall, siege is laid against us; with a rod they strike the ruler of Israel upon the cheek.

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. Therefore he shall give them up until the time when she who is in labor has brought forth; then the rest of his kindred shall return to the people of Israel. And he shall stand and feed his flock in the strength of the LORD, in the majesty of the name of the LORD his God. And they shall live secure, for now he shall be great to the ends of the earth; and he shall be the one of peace.

If the Assyrians come into our land and tread upon our soil, we will raise against them seven shepherds and eight installed as rulers.

Micah 5:1-5

The town of Bethlehem was changed forever with the birth of Jesus Christ. Our lives can also be changed forever with the birth of Jesus Christ in our own lives. When Christ comes to live in us, we are changed. We are no longer just ordinary human beings, we become the dwelling place of the Holy Spirit. Our identity and destiny are marked by Him, just as surely as a town becomes known for the significant person who was born there.

Christmas is a wonderful time to celebrate the presence of Christ in us, and the change He brings to all who invite Him in.

Our Daily Bread - December 18, 2005