Counting the Days: December 10, 2023
Matthew Shealy, B.A.
Assistant Sports Information Director
But you, O Bethlehem of Ephrathah, who are one of the little clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to rule in Israel, whose origin is from of old, from ancient days.
At 5-foot-3, Muggsy Bogues was the shortest athlete to ever play in the NBA. While he played for multiple teams during his 14-year career, Bogues most notably was a member of North Carolina’s own Charlotte Hornets – a team for which he still holds the franchise records for most career assists and steals more than 20 years after his retirement. Who would have imagined such amazing athletic accomplishments could come from the smallest person on the court?
In today’s reading, while prophesying that a great ruler will come from Bethlehem, Micah describes the town as “small among the clans of Judah.” The way it’s portrayed, it doesn’t sound like Bethlehem is regarded with much importance compared to the surrounding towns. It’s clear that this isn’t some big or grand city, yet an important person is set to emerge from this place. Who would expect such a great ruler to come from one of the smallest, least significant towns in the region at the time?
God has a habit of making great things happen in seemingly insignificant or unexpected places and ways – after all, the Savior of the world was born in what was likely a loud and smelly stable. That’s good news! No matter how insignificant we feel, God has significant plans for us. When we think we’re not enough, God tells us that we are – even when it seems like we pale in comparison to others around us. God even has the power to make great things happen through people whom we may not expect it from, because God’s love is boundless, and no one is too insignificant to receive it or share it with others.
Thank you, God, for loving us in spite of all our weaknesses and insecurities. Work through us so that we may be vessels for your love in ways that we may not even expect. Amen.