Humility – Part 2

And you, O Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for from you shall come a ruler who will shepherd my people Israel. Then Herod summoned the wise men secretly and ascertained from them what time the star had appeared. And he sent them to Bethlehem, saying, “Go and search diligently for the child, and when you have found him, bring me word, that I too may come and worship him.” – Matthew 2:6-8 ESV

Last time we talked about the humility of the Magi. When they entered the house and found the Christ child, they fell down and worshiped. They did that because they understood who he was. Let us now consider the humility of Herod or lack thereof. One of the great things about the Magi is that they held onto the prophetic truth for over 500 years, and when the star appeared, they knew it was time to find this newborn King.

The Magi arrived at Herod’s court, and asked him, “Where is the newborn king of the Jews? We saw his star as it rose, and we have come to worship him.” In response to this, Herod assembled his team of historians and theologians. They gave him the prophecy from Micah: “And you, O Bethlehem in the land of Judah, are not least among the ruling cities of Judah, for a ruler will come from you who will be the shepherd for my people Israel” And that’s what he brought to the meeting with the Magi. Even here you can see Herod’s disdain and deceit, “So I can worship him too.”

After worshiping the newborn King, they returned to their country another way, having been warned by God in a dream, to avoid Herod. Joseph was warned by an angel to take his wife and son and flee to Egypt. These passages and stories remind us that as we respond to life in humility and obedience, God’s plans will prevail.

Today’s One Thing

When it comes to arrogance, cruelty and deceit, Herod’s example is extreme. But how far will people go to stay in power? Is there something God has called you to do, or shown you, that just doesn’t appeal to you? Two things regarding His wisdom and love:

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding.  In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:5-6

For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11

God is full of wisdom and love, providing for each of us seeing us, through any hardship we may be facing. Trust in Him, and truth found in the scriptures this Christmas season, and watch what He will do!

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