Micah 5:2-4, 7-9

But you, Bethlehem, David’s country, the runt of the litter— From you will come the leader who will shepherd-rule Israel. He’ll be no upstart, no pretender. His family tree is ancient and distinguished. Meanwhile, Israel will be in foster homes until the birth pangs are over and the child is born, And the scattered brothers come back home to the family of Israel. He will stand tall in his shepherd-rule by GOD’s strength, centered in the majesty of GOD-Revealed. And the people will have a good and safe home, for the whole world will hold him in respect— Peacemaker of the world!

The purged and select company of Jacob will be like an island in the sea of peoples. They’ll be like dew from GOD, like summer showers Not mentioned in the weather forecast, not subject to calculation or control. Yes, the purged and select company of Jacob will be like an island in the sea of peoples, Like the king of beasts among wild beasts, like a young lion loose in a flock of sheep, Killing and devouring the lambs and no one able to stop him. With your arms raised in triumph over your foes, your enemies will be no more! * * *