Saturday, January 1, 2022

Day #2919

December 28, 2021

Tuesday’s Thoughts on Scripture comes from the Gospel of Matthew, chapter 2, verses 1-3: In the time of King Herod, after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, asking, “Where is the child who has been born king of the Jews? For we observed his star at its rising, and have come to pay him homage.” When King Herod heard this, he was frightened, and all Jerusalem with him. (NRSV)


It should be no surprise, perhaps, that King Herod is not depicted in Nativity Scenes. At least, I have never seen him in one. It seems that a frightened look at the birth of Jesus would distract from the Good News that the Messiah has arrived, that God has come to earth to live among us, that the Prince of Peace has been born. There is not room for fear in that Good News, or is there?


The truth sometimes causes fear. The truth shines light on the darkness, illuminating the motives of the heart that someone may think are hidden. Is that why King Herod, and all of Jerusalem, are afraid? That God might discover their deepest desires - for power, control, status quo? Or is there fear simply because they do not know what God will ultimately ask of them? To give too much, to forgive too much, to reconcile too much? 


Maybe a little bit of fear is a good thing for King Herod and Jerusalem’s people. After all, there can be a small difference between fear and respect. But I believe in this case, there is fear because they all dread what this might mean for them. How their lives might change. And these men from the East, from a long way away, are holding up a mirror to them. 


What does the news of Jesus being born create in your heart? I believe it is Jesus’ deepest desire for his presence to cause not fear, but awe, and joy, and hope. Help us, Lord Jesus, to welcome you with joy. Amen. 


Blessings. And prayers.

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