Several months ago I mentioned a little piece of information about Bethlehem. You know, the Bethlehem where Jesus was born. In passing I mentioned that the meaning of Bethlehem was “house of bread.”

http://www.photl.com/346253.html

Bethlehem was not an important city to the people of Jesus’ day. However, significant events had taken place in Bethlehem before this time. Rachel was buried there. The story of Ruth took place in and around Bethlehem. King David was born and raised in Bethlehem.

But by the time Jesus was born, Bethlehem was just a small, insignificant village.

God had great plans for Bethlehem, however. It would be the location of the birth of the Messiah. And it is mentioned in Old Testament prophecy.

“But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times.” (Micah 5:2 – NIV)

Ah, Bethlehem would one day become great. Not because of what man did in that village, but because of what God would do.

This prophecy in Micah continues with the great announcement of how the Messiah would change the lives of people. It ends with the announcement that “he will be their peace.” (Micah 5:5 – NIV) What a blessing in our world filled with turmoil.

We see parts of this passage again in Matthew. When the wise men stopped in to see King Herod, they were told that Bethlehem was the birthplace of the newborn King.

“But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for out of you will come a ruler who will be the shepherd for my people Israel.” (Matthew 2:6 – NIV)

However, the meaning of Bethlehem’s name wasn’t significant until Jesus began His teaching. In John 6, Jesus speaks of being the Bread of Life. “I am the bread of life. He who comes to me will never go hungry, and he who believes in me will never be thirsty.” (John 6:35 – NIV)

The Bread of Life (Jesus) was born in the House of Bread (Bethlehem).

In the midst of proclaiming Himself as the Bread of Life, there is a little verse that points us to the incarnation of God. It has become one of my favorite “Christmas” verses.

“For the bread of God is he who comes down from heaven and gives life to the world.” (John 6:33 – NIV)

Yes, the Bread of Life was born in the House of Bread, but there is so much more meaning to it. He came so that the world might have life through Him!

And just a few chapters later, Jesus says He is the Light of the world. “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” (John 8:12 – NIV)

Through Jesus we have life and the light of life. He is everything we could possibly need or want.

Have you accepted Jesus as your daily Bread? Is He your life? Your light of life? I pray that He is. I pray that as we come to the final week before Christmas that you take note of what this season is really about. The Bread of Life offering real life to us.

But perhaps it’s time for you to accept Him as your Savior. To find a deeper meaning of Christmas this year. If so, please let me know. I’d be happy to chat with you about how to do so and what a difference it will make in your life.

I believe God used a simple, day-to-day staple to remind us of Jesus. Bread. Each piece of bread you pick up or eat should be a reminder of where our life truly comes from. The Bread of Life. Jesus.

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

Donna