A Thrill of HopeSample

When Mary Elizabeth Donaldson met the Crown Prince of Denmark at the 2000 Sydney Olympics, it was quite the topic of conversation in her (and my) hometown, Hobart. It seemed almost magical that a girl from little Tasmania could marry a prince, become a princess, and later Queen of Denmark.

I wonder if this shares a little of the same sentiment in Micah’s prophecy to his first readers - the news that God would raise up a great ruler from a humble place: Bethlehem. King David’s hometown, yes, but not a great or influential city. Yet, from this seemingly ordinary town, the eternal Son of God entered history to shepherd His people.

Micah describes this leader as one who, “is from of old, from ancient days” (Micah 5:2, ESV). Knowing that Jesus is from old reminds us that He is far more than a man - He is God Himself, who willingly left the glory of heaven to enter our world and take on humanity.

Jesus did not come as a conquering warrior, but as a shepherd-king. He comes to guide, protect, and provide—not in human strength, but in the power of God. He offers not just temporary relief from our struggles, but true peace; wholeness, restoration, and reconciliation with God.

Today, ponder this: Where are you feeling small, overlooked, or unsure? Maybe it’s a quiet corner of your heart, a relationship that feels broken, a fear that lingers, or a season of waiting that feels long. The same Jesus who stepped out of humble Bethlehem steps into your life today. He comes to meet you where you are:

• If you are weary or burdened, invite Him to guide you as your Shepherd.
• If you feel small or insignificant, remember He delights in using the humble to accomplish His purposes.
• If you are carrying guilt or regret, receive His peace that restores and reconciles.

God’s power is revealed not through human might, but through humility, love, and vulnerability—the same way it was revealed in Bethlehem. The shepherd-king who came quietly with no fanfare, still reigns, still cares, and still brings light into the darkest places. He doesn’t just bring peace - He is peace (Ephesians 2:14).