Robyn Carrillo
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New Things I've Learned About Christmas

12/7/2015

10 Comments

 
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          I remember standing on the Mount of Olives looking at the iconic view of the old city wall of Jerusalem. Our guide pointed out where there used to be a road leading into the now sealed gate, during Biblical times.


          The people would enter this Eastern Gate (also called the Golden Gate) on their way to worship at the Temple. During the Jewish feast of Passover, the sacrificial lambs were herded down the road and through the gate, into the Temple area to be inspected before the sacrifice.

          The lambs were raised from birth for this specific purpose; to be sacrificed as the payment for the sins of the people. The lambs were raised in a small community outside of Bethlehem, five miles south of Jerusalem. This area known for raising the lambs is mentioned several times throughout the Bible. It is the small community of Migdal Edar. The shepherds there were not ordinary shepherds. They were commissioned by the temple Rabbi’s to inspect and certify which lambs were without flaw, perfect. They were to let the flawed lambs go for ordinary purposes, but the perfect lambs they wrapped strips of cloth around, to save for the sacrificial offering at Passover.

          The most famous time Migdal Edar is referenced, the name is not used. Given it’s purpose and proximity to Bethlehem, it is believed when the Angel Gabriel announced the birth of baby Jesus, it was to the shepherds at Migdal Edar.

           10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. 11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. 12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”
13 Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,
14 “Glory to God in the highest heaven,
    and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”                     Luke 2:10-14

                                   
           The shepherds who were raising and inspecting the Passover lambs were the first to be told about the Lamb of God, who would take away the sins of the world. (John 1:29) They were the first to inspect, or admire, the final lamb that would be slain. (Revelation 5:12)

          As we celebrate the birth of Christ, are we thinking about the holiday to come? Passover, or Resurrection Day. Do we think about how Jesus was born for the purpose of dying for the payment of our sins?  Christmas is not only a time to remember and admire the baby Jesus. It is also an invitation to bow to Him, as the Magi did.

           This season when we see a nativity scene let’s remember Jesus came not only to be seen in the manger, but also to be followed. When baby Jesus grew up, his ministry was to call people to,

                             “Come, follow me.” Matthew 4:19



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10 Comments
Christine Leeb link
12/7/2015 11:12:52 am

Beautiful. Brought tears to my eyes to learn more about this beautiful time of year that can be so clouded with sales and decorations and cookies and parties. Thank you for bring a smile to my day today as I was feeling a little frustrated at my "to-do" list! My "to-do" for the season needs to be redefined!

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Robyn
12/7/2015 07:54:55 pm

I'm glad you liked it Christine! It definitely takes effort to keep our focus on the real reason for the season. Blessings!

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Beth Willis miller link
12/7/2015 04:32:11 pm

Loved this post! I, too, have been to Israel, but had never heard this about these special shepherds...how neat! Many blessings to you ❤️

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Robyn
12/7/2015 07:58:08 pm

My husband and I host tours to Israel, and we learn something new every time we go. This one gave me chills though when we first heard it and saw where it was. Thanks for stopping by Beth!

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Barbie link
12/7/2015 09:32:11 pm

I've never been to Israel and would so love to visit. Thank you for the reminder to focus not only on His coming, but His life and ultimately the price He paid that we might live.

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Robyn
12/8/2015 05:55:14 pm

Thanks Barbie. I hope you get to go to Israel sometime. It is such an amazing place.

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stuckinindiana link
12/8/2015 05:16:09 am

Great post... loved the images that played out in my mind when I read it. Have a blessed Christmas!!

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Robyn
12/8/2015 05:57:15 pm

Thanks! So glad you liked it!

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Janis Coxq link
12/8/2015 01:36:03 pm

What a lovely post! Great information about the shepherds. Will be thinking about them in a new way. I have a LINK on the weekend too called Word of God Speak. Please join us.
I am following you from Weekend Whispers.
Blessings
Janis

Reply
Robyn
12/8/2015 05:58:21 pm

Thanks Janis! I am new to linking up, and will definitely look yours up.

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    Robyn Carrillo

    Hi, I'm Robyn! Welcome! If you are looking for encouragement in your walk with the Lord you came to the right place. Stay awhile, look around, join the conversation. I pray you will leave with a smile on your face and Sonshine in your heart!

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