Kevin Wilson 360

Our Scripture meditation is based on Micah 5:2-5a, next week’s Old Testament Reading.

My meditations usually start with the Scripture passage upon which the meditation is based. This reading paints such a rich portrait of the Messiah that I’m going to present it verse-by-verse.

[2] 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, whose coming forth is from of old, from ancient days.

Yes, this ruler was prophesied in ancient days. The first recorded prophesy is in Genesis 3:15. The Messiah was truly long awaited. 

[3] Therefore he shall give them up until the time when she who is in labor has given birth; then the rest of his brothers shall return to the people of Israel.

The “rest of his brothers shall return” carries double meaning. It means the Jewish people who were separated. Separated because their ancestors were scattered by Israel’s enemies. Separated because they had fallen for the idolatry of false gods. Yet this also refers to all who were scattered because of the original sin. Since God created all people, God counted the Gentiles as his lost people. The Messiah would gather even the Gentiles.

[4] And he shall stand and shepherd his flock in the strength of the LORD, in the majesty of the name of the LORD his God. And they shall dwell secure, for now he shall be great to the ends of the earth.

In daily life we experience insecurities. We become insecure about the commitment of friends, about our careers, about our health. When these dark feelings descend on us, we are reminded that the Good Shepherd is with us. Jesus has ensured our relationship with God is secure. This single security wraps around us when personal insecurities shake us. 

[5] And he shall be their peace.

Such a short, impactful prophesy. Jesus indeed has become our peace. In his death and resurrection, Jesus healed our sin fueled conflict with God. Jesus literally became our peace. It is this Prince of Peace whose birth we will again celebrate in about 10 days.