December 14th Advent Devotional

December 14

Micah 5:2-5

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.

… and he shall be the one of peace.

-Micah 5:2,5a

The word time is the most commonly used noun in the English language. Everyone knows the meaning of the word in a particular context, but defining it is difficult.   Time is really important to mankind, perhaps because there is so little of it between birth and death.  (Judging from the speed of automobile travel in Murfreesboro and on interstate highways, most people seem to be trying futilely to save a little time.) The human lifespan can be relatively long by human standards, 80 or more years in my case, or as short as 3 months or less, which was the case for two of our children who were born afflicted with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA Type 1).

Micah prophesied the birth of a “Ruler” for Israel who would tenderly care for his flock. The birth would happen in Bethlehem, a small mostly insignificant village in the country of Judah. Micah further predicted that the Ruler would be the manifestation of the eternal God who transcends the boundaries of time and space.  Micah’s prophecy was fulfilled by the first coming of Jesus around 700 years after Micah wrote his words.

Micah further predicted that the Ruler would ultimately “be their peace.” Some scholars interpret this phrase as a prediction of the second coming of Jesus. But peace is elusive in today’s troubled World. So, should we be concerned about the timing of Micah’s prophecy?

Kathy and I thank God that we were blessed with two beautiful granddaughters and a wonderful daughter and son-in-law who have been the greatest joy of our lives.  We have faith that separation from family members is just temporary and that all of God’s family will be reunited in Heaven in due time.

Warren and Kathy Perkins