Great truths leap from this verse about Bethlehem. Though but a tiny village, Bethlehem would be the birthplace of the Messiah. The One born there would one day rule Israel. The birth in Bethlehem would be the incarnation of the Eternal God.
Why was Bethlehem chosen?

Bethlehem had been the birthplace of the son of sorrows. There Rachel gave birth to Jacob’s son and called him “Benoni,” meaning “son of my sorrow.” Jesus would be the “man of sorrows.”

Bethlehem was the home of Boaz, who took Ruth to be his wife. Ruth was widowed, poor, discouraged and broken-hearted. Nevertheless, Boaz loved her and had compassion for her. He redeemed her — paid her debts — and took her for his own. Jesus receives the broken and discouraged. It was said of Him: “This man receiveth sinners.”

Bethlehem was the place of the anointing of David. As the anointed king, he finally took the kingdom from Saul, who had failed. Jesus will sit upon the throne of His father David and bring peace to the world when man has run his course of bloodshed, violence and failure.

Bethlehem was known as the “place of bread.” Jesus said, “…I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst” (John 6:35).

Bethlehem had a cool refreshing well. And all who come to Jesus find satisfaction for their thirsty souls.
No wonder Jesus was born in Bethlehem.