So he assembled all the chief priests and scribes of the people and asked them where the Messiah would be born. “In Bethlehem of Judea.” they told him, “because this is what was written by the prophet: And you Bethlehem, in the land of Judah are by no means least among the leaders of Judah: because out of you will come a leader who will shepherd My people Israel.” Matthew 2:4-6 HCSB
It is Christmas time and many children make their requests for certain gifts. Most parents try to get their children what they want, but often because of funds they are unable to purchase what the child wants. They may purchase a different gift from what the child was hoping for and expecting.
The Jewish people had been hoping and looking forward to the promised Messiah as recorded in many different places in the Old Testament. Matthew is referring to the prophecy recorded in Micah 5:2 regarding the Messiah being born in Bethlehem. Most Jews were hoping for a great military and political deliverer from the Roman government. The religious leaders and the Jewish people did not get what they expected. Instead, they got a small baby boy born in a stable to a poor boy and girl, Joseph and Mary, in the obscure village of Bethlehem. This was not exactly what they had pictured as the coming Messiah to deliver them.
Challenge: Even though the religious leaders understood the Scriptures, they refused to accept Jesus as the Messiah because it was not what they were looking for. What are you looking for in life? What are you expecting from Jesus? Only Jesus can provide the peace and purpose in life that you are seeking. Peace and purpose does not come through more worldly possessions or even good health. Jesus knows what is best for you and will give you what you need rather than what you want. Trust Him. Read Proverbs 3:5-6.