Read Matthew 2:3-4 When word of their inquiry got to Herod, he was terrified—and not Herod alone, but most of Jerusalem as well. Herod lost no time. He gathered all the high priests and religion scholars in the city together and asked, “Where is the Messiah supposed to be born?”"When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him."[Matthew 2:3]
The wise men have reached Jerusalem. That puts them about five miles from Jesus. But they might as well be back home since they have no idea where to find the young King. With excitement they consult with King Herod in an attempt to learn the location of the King of the Jews whose star they have been following.
King Herod's reaction is nothing like theirs. Where they were overjoyed to be so close to seeing the young King, he is troubled, stirred up, aggravated. And when King Herod is stirred up, all Jerusalem is stirred up with him. The city dreaded his rage.
You see, King Herod is a paranoid ruler. He is deathly afraid of losing his throne. He fears his children's ambition. His ten wives and their numerous children shared his ruthless drive and schemed to succeed him. Herod feared they were plotting to assassinate him, and so he responded.
His sister Salome, who was jealous of his wives, was happy to feed his paranoia. At her prompting, Herod killed his favorite wife along with her grandfather, her mother, and his brother-in-law. He killed three of his sons, along with numerous subjects, including the high priest. So it shouldn't be surprising that King Herod was stirred up to learn from the wise men that another King of the Jews had been born.
Do you see Jesus as a threat to your freedom and independence? Do you see a heavenly King who would step in to take over your life and take away your freedoms? That is not why Christ came. He came to save us from our sins, to free us from our fears, and to enable us to fulfill God's good purpose for our lives. Jesus Christ comes to us to set us free. He comes to remove our guilt, fear, and shame. He comes to empower us to live our lives for Him, and for our family, friends, and neighbors in freedom, peace, and great joy. To do that Jesus had to take our place and fall under the fiery wrath of God. But through His suffering, death, and resurrection, Jesus won our forgiveness, peace, and salvation.
THE PRAYER: Lord God, many people feel threatened and fearful like Herod. Please break through and show Your love and concern for us and for our salvation. Empower us to submit ourselves to Your will so that our lives may be fulfilling and worthwhile as we continue on our journey to Your glorious home. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
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