“When King Herod heard this, he was disturbed… (he) called the Magi secretly and found out from them the exact time the star had appeared… (They) were warned in a dream not to go back to Herod…” Matthew 2
During these beautiful weeks of Advent, we shudder to think of the hatred and murderous plot of Herod and his son Archelaus. These men vividly represent those who feared the humble birth of an infant who was rumored to become king.
Perhaps one of the most striking aspects of this dark side of Christmas is how God dealt with these enemies and their schemes to kill Jesus. There were sufficient numbers of political zealots in Israel who could have been enlisted to fight off Herod and enforce God’s plan. He could have miraculously intervened to strike Herod dead, thus introducing God’s Kingdom in a way that would gain the world’s attention.
Instead of these headline-making actions, however, God quietly sends a dream to the searching Magi, and their route homeward is altered. Joseph, too, hears God’s warning whisper in a dream and travels to Egypt where his young family will avoid Herod.
Years pass, Herod dies and life should be safe for the small family. They prepare to return to the land of their birth but once again are warned by God in the stillness of night to change their plans and head toward Nazareth, the town where Mary first heard the angel’s news.
Christians often deplore what is called the “commercialization of Christmas,” and understandably want to take action against ideas that seem to threaten what is held sacred. Some suggest boycotts, picket lines or similar actions. None of these is wrong, but I wonder if perhaps God’s method of furthering His Kingdom that began with the humble birth of the King might be more subtle and in line with His character? Could God possibly whisper creative ideas in the quiet time we spend with Him? Would an encouraging word to the harried cashier reflect His plan? How about a loaf of freshly baked bread to the single working mom who just wishes Christmas would disappear?
How strange of God to say that His plan for dealing with His enemies is to love them.
Prayer: Reaction is easier for me than loving action! Bring to my attention how I can reflect your love during these busy December days. Amen
by Marilyn Ehle
Used by Permission
Further Reading
• How Dearly God Loves Us – by Bill Bright
• Love: Answer to Hostility – by Muriel Larson
• Your Kindness Quotient – by Max Lucado