In early July, I visited the birthplace of Jesus in Bethlehem -- the Basilica of the Nativity. Situated in an urban area in Palestine, the Church stood on a busy public square.
Bethlehem is a small town located on a rocky hill south of Jerusalem, overgrown with vineyards, olive groves, almond trees and fig trees. The inhabitants of Bethlehem, remote from the important caravan routes of antiquity, historically led a pastoral and agricultural life.
Bethlehem left a mark in Old Testament history. On the northern outskirts of the city is the tomb of the beautiful Rachel, the wife of the forefather Jacob. Over the tomb, revered by Jews, Christians and Muslims, in the XVIII century a domed structure was built. David was born in Bethlehem in the family of Jesse and was anointed king by the prophet Samuel.
From Bethlehem, King Saul summoned David to play the harp when Saul was attacked by an evil spirit (1 Sam. 16:14-23). In the city of David, there is a well associated with the name of David, and reminiscent of his struggle with the Philistines (2 Samuel 23:8-17). 750 years before the birth of Christ, the prophet Micah announced that the then insignificant village of Bethlehem would become the birthplace of the Messiah (Micah 5:2-5).
In recent weeks, there was heightened tension between Israelis and Palestinians because of conflictual clashes that were taking place in Jenin. Yet Bethlehem was peaceful and not busy at all. Entering the area was pleasant and while I was there, prayer was being carried out in the focal point of the Church (below ground).
