THE PROPHECY OF CHRIST’S COMING TO SHEPHERDS
Micah prophesied that “sovereignty” would come to a “hill” where stood the “watchtower for the flock.” This prophecy points to the birth of the Messiah, Jesus Christ. In Hebrew, the phrase “watchtower for the flock” is “Migdal Edar.” It described both a tower and a place. It would have been a two-story stone watchtower that the shepherds used to keep watch over their flocks. And “Migdal Edar” also described a place near Bethlehem on the road to Jerusalem (Gen.35:19-21). The tower would have been on a “hill” to enlarge the shepherd’s view from the top story. The bottom story was used as a stable for newborn lambs.
The shepherds of Bethlehem were known for raising sacrificial lambs to sell to the Temple in Jerusalem. They would wrap the newborn lambs in swaddling clothes to make sure they were kept without blemish. It was to these shepherds at “Migdal Edar” that Micah prophesied that One representing the “former rule,” which was the throne of David, would come. And so He did.
Centuries later, an angel of the Lord announced to the shepherds outside Bethlehem, “For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; You shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger” (Luke 2:11-12).
PRAYER: Dear Father, Christ Jesus has come to us just as Your prophets were inspired to write. We give You praise and worship for Your fulfilled Word. Now strengthen us to live for You as we await Your Son’s soon return. In Jesus’ name, amen.