For this is what the prophet has written...

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"After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem." Matthew 2:1

OK, I know I'm not too savvy when it comes to geography, but I really didn't know Bethlehem was sooooo close to Jerusalem. Yesterday we took a day trip to visit the site where tradition says Jesus was born. It was so very interesting in many ways.

First we met with some Palestinian believers and had some good fellowship over lunch. Then we visited the Church of the Nativity (and the Grotto of the Nativity, which is supposed to be the exact cave where Jesus was born), the Shepherd's Fields, and Rachel's Tomb.

My overall impression of Bethlehem was much better than I had expected. It reminded me of Jerusalem, some old and some new parts. I was pleasantly surprised at how much new building was taking place, beautiful buildings. I saw many sign with "U.N." on them. When I asked about the signs, I was told it has to do with the Palestinian bid for statehood at the U.N. this week. This news will be worth following.

Please pray for peace for Israel and her neighbors.

Comments

  1. VaughnSeptember 27, 2011 at 3:01 AM

    To be used in the sacrifice the Lamb had to be within the distance that Bethlehem is to Jerusalem or it could not be used to forgive sin... it had to be examined by shepherds before it could be sent to the temple after a ritual period... all of these requirements to be qualified as the sacrificial lamb Christ met at his birth in Bethlehem including being examined to be by the shepherds... it gave me chills to stand there and realize how carefully orchestrated was his birth even to the mile and those who came to 'examine' him... blessings

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