I am currently in Ecuador, standing on the equator, feeling a strange sense of balance. It’s as if all the world’s extremes are pulled together at this single point. North and South united, day and night perfectly balanced. This unique spot reminds me of another place where extremes converged – a tiny town called Bethlehem.
Along the equator of God’s plan, He often marks His greatest wonders at the most unlikely points. Bethlehem – its name means “House of Bread.” How fitting that the Bread of Life would draw His first breath here.
Micah’s ancient words echo through the centuries: “But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah, who are too little to be among the clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler in Israel” (Micah 5:2). Too little, yet chosen for greatness. Isn’t that just like our God?
In a world torn by violence, hatred, and division, God chose a humble stable to introduce His plan for peace. While nations plotted against each other and kings feared assassination, the Prince of Peace entered the world as a vulnerable child. No armies to protect Him, just the loving arms of Mary and Joseph.
Why such humble beginnings for the Savior of the world?
Perhaps it’s God’s way of redefining power. You see, in God’s economy, true strength is found in vulnerability, and ultimate victory comes through sacrifice.
Jesus, “though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men” (Philippians 2:6-7). From heaven’s throne to earth’s straw – what a journey!
Like the equator bringing together global extremes, Bethlehem united the divine and human, love and hate, peace and conflict. It’s where God’s plan for reconciliation met human hostility, where heavenly love confronted earthly hatred.
Friend, as you witness the extremes of human behavior – from acts of great kindness to unspeakable violence – remember Bethlehem. Let it challenge you to be an instrument of peace in a world of conflict.
