Matthew 2:7-8, Herod's Deception

7 Then Herod summoned the wise men secretly and ascertained from them what time the star had appeared. 8 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.”

Comments

Herod tried to turn the magi into his spies. He wanted the date the star first appeared so he could set age parameters for the boys he planned to have killed. He also needed an exact location within Bethlehem to center his hunt.

Herod tried to control everything – even the will of God. Despite his knowledge of Jewish prophecies, despite learned foreigners showing up seeking God’s pre-appointed king, Herod held onto power at all costs.

In Contrast, Jesus,

emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. (Philippians 2:5-11)

Application/Reflection

Is there a place in your life where control is a problem, where it is hurting other people or possibly yourself? The need for control usually comes from a place of insecurity and unhappiness. Take some time to consider where you are unnecessarily asserting control over others or events and humble yourself before God. Ask God to help you turn control over to him by focusing on the cross of Christ where God humbled himself for you.

Prayer

Almighty and everliving God, in your tender love for the human race you sent your Son our Savior Jesus Christ to take upon him our nature, and to suffer death upon the cross, giving us the example of his great humility: Mercifully grant that we may walk in the way of his suffering, and also share in his resurrection; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

(BCP, p. 219)