“Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the reign of King Herod. About that time some wise men from eastern lands arrived in Jerusalem asking ‘Where is the newborn king of the Jews? We saw his star as it rose, and we have come to worship him.’ King Herod was deeply disturbed when he heard this…”
Matthew 2:1-3 NLT
When kings from the east learned about Jesus’ birth, they wanted to worship this king of the Jews. On the other hand, when King Herod learned about Jesus’ birth, he wanted to kill Him! What a striking difference in the hearts of these kings. The eastern kings humbly traveled far to honor the new king. They brought Jesus their treasures and bowed before him in worship. However, King Herod was deeply disturbed that another king had invaded HIS kingdom. Out of fear, Herod killed hundreds of baby boys, simply trying to get rid of a perceived rival to HIS throne!
If Herod felt threatened when another King came to live in HIS kingdom, I wonder about me? How do I respond when King Jesus comes to my little kingdom? Am I willing to honor Him with the treasures of my life, or do I horde them for my selfish gain? Do I humbly bow to His authority, or am I afraid that would threaten my control?
Jesus came to our world to SHOW us God, but people keep messing up the photo! Herod even tried to erase Him from the picture, but Immanuel came to stay. And He is still God WITH us—and He still wants to be seen!
The world will SEE God when we stop trying to photo-bomb HIS picture!
