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The Lesson of Bethlehem, January 2
Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that
look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto
salvation.
Hebrews 9:28
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At the time of Christ’s first advent the priests and scribes of the Holy
City, to whom were entrusted the oracles of God, might have discerned the
signs of the times and proclaimed the coming of the Promised One. The
prophecy of Micah designated His birthplace; Daniel specified the time of
His advent. God committed these prophecies to the Jewish leaders; they
were without excuse if they did not know and declare to the people that the
Messiah’s coming was at hand. Their ignorance was the result of sinful
neglect....
All the people should have been watching and waiting that they might
be among the first to welcome the world’s Redeemer. But, lo, at Bethlehem
two weary travelers from the hills of Nazareth traverse the whole length
of the narrow street to the eastern extremity of the town, vainly seeking a
place of rest and shelter for the night. No doors are open to receive them.
In a wretched hovel prepared for cattle, they at last find refuge, and there
the Saviour of the world is born....
There is no evidence that Christ is expected, and no preparation for the
Prince of life. In amazement the celestial messenger is about to return to
heaven with the shameful tidings, when he discovers a group of shepherds
who are watching their flocks by night, and as they gaze into the starry
heavens, are contemplating the prophecy of a Messiah to come to earth, and
longing for the advent of the world’s Redeemer. Here is a company that is
prepared to receive the heavenly message. And suddenly the angel of the
Lord appears, declaring the good tidings of great joy....
Oh, what a lesson is this wonderful story of Bethlehem! How it rebukes
our unbelief, our pride and self-sufficiency. How it warns us to beware, lest
by our criminal indifference we also fail to discern the signs of the times,
and therefore know not the day of our visitation.
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