But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times. (Micah 5:2)
Bethlehem is at the centre of the Christmas story. Although not much of a place it was here that Jesus was welcomed into the world. In Bethlehem, Mary and Joseph were offered hospitality by a hard pressed innkeeper. And on that night hope came into the world in a new and special way.
Over the Christmas period churches open their doors in welcome. Many offer hospitality in the form of meals and mince pies. The nativity story will be told through carols and readings. Jesus will be worshipped as light and hope for the world.
Most local churches will, like the little town of Bethlehem, know themselves to be small and insignificant. The hospitality they offer will, like that of the innkeeper, seem inadequate. Despite all this, hope will once again be born into the world as the birth of the Holy Child is celebrated.
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