Jesus was born in Bethlehem, a small town a few miles outside of Jerusalem. Bethlehem was never a big, bustling place. The name meals “House of Bread,” or more basically, “House of Food.”

Bethlehem carries a double significance. What Bethlehem was known for was being the birthplace of King David, of whom Jesus was descended. David reflected his town in many ways. He was anointed King by the prophet Samuel, but only after Samuel had carefully examined every single one of his seven brothers. David’s father hadn’t even called David in for the meeting, assuming that Samuel would choose one of older, taller (and assumingly more handsome) brothers. From such a low-key beginning, David went on to become Israel’s most significant King, a man who epitomized the character of the kingdom he led.

The prophets refer to Bethlehem as an insignificant place, but it’s a place God chooses for its insignificance. Just as David was chosen from his older and greater brothers to be King, Bethlehem was chosen from its larger and greater neighbors to be the birthplace of the Messiah. God doesn’t judge by status or riches or other outward appearances. God judges the heart, and He works where He wishes to work.

We invite you to join us Sunday morning, at 9:30 a.m. for adult Sunday School and 10:30 a.m. for worship. We’re located on the corner of First and High Street in Steelville. For more information, check out our website at steelvillepresbyterian.org.