Scripture: Matthew 2:3-6
When King Herod heard this, he was frightened, and all Jerusalem with him; and calling together all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Messiah was to be born. They told him, “In Bethlehem of Judea; for so it has been written by the prophet: ‘And you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for from you shall come a ruler who is to shepherd my people Israel.'”
Thought for the Day: Herod appears to be a bit nervous and he probably should be. The birth of the child will not threaten him directly, even though the child is being described as a king. In fact, Herod would live a long life and accomplish many admirable feats. Yet his way of life and his way of treating people is seeing the beginning of the end. He ruled by wielding power over people and spreading fear, yet changes were happening with the arrival of Jesus. It makes me think about the world today, and how there is still plenty of Herod-like behavior. People still use intimidation, fear and violence to achieve worldly prosperity, but it is continuing to lose its power. The question for all of us is how will my life participate with the change? Will my legacy be one that honors God’s gift of incarnate love or will it disavow this gift. Herod was celebrated as a very successful man, yet his life did not help move the world any closer to God’s kingdom. Will your life?
Prayer: I want to be a part of what you are doing, Magnificent God. I wish for my life to be a tool of you transformative love that is building your kingdom here on earth. Amen.
