I'm not an Old Testament scholar, but from what I understand, 400+ years transpired between the prophet Micah's prophecy - that the awaited King, the Son of God, would be born in Bethlehem. This is just one of the many prophecies that the people of Israel were waiting upon to be answered.
But God was faithful and He sent His Son to earth. The years leading to the time may have been dark, and filled wih questioning of his intent but The Lord fulfilled his promises.
The beauty of Christmas is celebrating the birth of our Savior and treasuring that season of Advent - of waiting for Him. Let's not forget we are now in another stage of waiting - for His return. The world is dark and evil, but our Savior - who came to earth as both God and man- has a perfect plan for all of history. His birth was foretold and The Lord knows when he will come again.
We can't lose hope, but must press on for His Kingdom. His Birth is cause for reflection and celebration as his period of Advent concludes. May our hearts always be in a state of Advent for his second coming.
