The birth of Jesus in Bethlehem serves as an enduring sign of the core meaning of Christmas – which is movement from hopelessness to hope through Christ alone. 1. Imagining the scene of hopelessness in Zion - the people of God under attack and being humiliated. (v.1) 2. How was hope restored? By God's announcement that He will send a kingly ruler to deliver them, born in Bethlehem. (v.2-3) 3. More than His birth is promised – Jesus will… a) stand & shepherd them in the strength of The LORD b) be great c) be their peace d) deliver them from their enemies. (v.4-6) Where do we turn for hope in discouraging times? Into what city was King David born? 1 Sam. 16:1-4, Luke 2:4 Who brings together those who are apart? John 10:16, Eph. 2:17-22 How will this prophesied shepherd rule? Mt.12:15-21, 2 Cor. 10:3-5