Threatened

3 When King Herod heard this he was disturbed, and all Jerusalem with him. 4 When he had called together all the people’s chief priests and teachers of the law, he asked them where the Messiah was to be born.

Matthew 2:3-4

It’s hard to like Herod. I mean, you can understand to a certain extent. Herod wasn’t a Jew. And yet he was a ‘King of the Jews’. He wasn’t like or trusted by his people because of his relationship to the Romans.

Also, because he claimed to practise Judaism and yet very obviously didn’t. Herod’s court (his inner circle) were known for their decadence. Herod was likewise fond of murder. He killed his own son Antipater and of course, several infants in the surroundings of Bethlehem.

Now, most aren’t as evil as Herod. And most don’t have as much to lose by a rival King. But I reckon there is something of all people in Herod. I think lots of people hesitate to check out Jesus because they are conscious of what they might have to give up.

Some have built their careers, their little empires on the understanding that there are no consequences after death. That there is no one to answer to for their decisions. Sometimes, confronted by the possibility of being wrong, it’s easier to dismiss Christ than embrace Him.

This reminds us of the need for humility. It’s attractive to think that there will be no consequences and no one to answer to. But what if there is? Far better to seek His forgiveness than face His wrath.

For Today:

• Do you know someone who doesn’t want Jesus to exist?
• Why are you thankful you have forgiveness in Christ?
• Who could you pray for today - that they would humble themselves?

Pray:

• Praise the Father that He is the good King who is worthy of His throne.
• Give thanks for Jesus who allowed Himself to be murdered for the sake of His people.
• Ask God for His Holy Spirit to humble the hearts of people in the Northern Suburbs.