December 21

Day 21 | Bethlehem

Scripture: Micah 5:1-5

Often God does things that surprise us. God chose the small town of Bethlehem for the birthplace of Jesus. In Bible times, most rulers in important families were born in bigger cities, but Jesus was born into an ordinary family in a small village.

God chose Bethlehem many years before Jesus was born. Even though the prophet Micah wrote that Bethlehem would be the place where the Savior would be born, the little town of Bethlehem wasn’t ready for the birth of Jesus when the time came. The world may have not been ready to make room for God’s Son, but God made a place for Him.

The day when we celebrate Jesus’ birth will soon be here. We need to make our hearts ready.

Talk About:
• How are you getting ready to celebrate Jesus’ birth?
• What is most important about Christmas to you?

Prayer: Eternal God, help us to always be ready for You. Help us to celebrate You every day.

Additional Scriptures:
Luke 2:1-20
Matthew 2:1-6

Age-Focused Discussion

Preschool
• What town was Jesus born in?
• What prophet told of Jesus’ birth in Bethlehem 700 years before Jesus was born?

Elementary
• Why do you think God chose a small town like Bethlehem for such important events?
• Why do you think God told people ahead of time where Jesus would be born?
• Why do you think there was no room for Mary and Joseph, even though Bethlehem was the prophesied birthplace of Jesus?

Middle and High School
• What does Jesus’ humble birth teach us about God’s character?
• Have you ever felt small or unimportant?
• How does Bethlehem’s story encourage you?
• What does this story teach us about trusting God’s plans even when things don’t seem perfect?

Gospel Conversation
Jesus’ birth in the small town of Bethlehem can remind us that Jesus came for everyone. He didn’t just come for the rich, powerful, or important people. He came for the ordinary people. People who came from humble beginnings. The good news of Jesus growing up to live a perfect life, giving His life, and raising from the grave, is good news for all people. He died so we could be rescued from our sins, and he rose so that we could have eternal life.