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Israel Diary On the Way to Bethlehem Bethlehem is located 5 miles south of Jerusalem. The road is on a ridge that makes it fairly easy traveling from Jerusalem. When we entered the city we passed Rachel’s tomb on the right and took an immediate left to circle around the hillside to Manger Square.
The City is busy getting ready for the year 2,000 and all the events that will take place during that year. Consequently, the main road is being rebuilt and we had to park at the bottom of the hill and walk about a quarter of a mile to Manger Square. The city of Bethlehem is a city with many little shops on very narrow, winding streets. Much of the city is located on a hillside that increases the intensity of a stroll through the city. It is a good idea when you do walk in Bethlehem that you have a few landmarks in mind because street signs are almost non-existent.
Two thousand years ago "the hopes and fears of all the years" came to pass in this small, unimportant little town of Bethlehem. When I walk the streets, I am reminded that Bethlehem may be a bit like me. I’m not an important, wealthy person except when I get together with my Father. His love for me makes me important. His work in me created an opportunity for me to have a relationship with Him. His love for me provides the foundation that I need to face the difficult times that life brings. Luke introduces Bethlehem to us in the New Testament. It is a place where the activity of the Lord was expressed in human terms, a baby in a manger. ©mikeclay.com, 1999 |
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