DECEMBER 28 | MATTHEW 2:1-12

by Judy Webb

“After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem and asked, “Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.” When King Herod heard this, he was disturbed, and all Jerusalem with him.” (Matthew 2:1-3)

Why was Herod so concerned? Surely an infant could pose no threat to him. He was an adult and a powerful leader. So, what’s the issue? Besides, even if the baby could have a claim on Herod’s throne, that was so many years down the road. Just what was the big deal to Herod? Well, it is surprising what you learn when questions like this keep tugging until you stumble on new (to me) information.

Blog writer, Robin Schumacher tells the Magi were so powerful that no Persian was ever able to become king except under two conditions and one of them was He had to be approved of and crowned by the Magi.

First, Herod, appointed King by the Roman Empire, was insecure in his position. Second, he was very worried that he might not be able to hold on to his crown. When he discovered that there was a contingent of Magi on the way, following a star which heralded the Messiah’s coming, he panicked. He felt threatened by their arrival.

Upon closer look into the Magi community, it is interesting to learn that they were called King Makers. Reference to these men can be found in various places in the Bible. Esther 1:12-14, 19, Daniel 6:8, where they are generally referred to as wise men. They are the focus of our topic today in the Gospel of Matthew where the emphasis is Jesus is King. It would seem Herod was also aware of this, and he turned to violence to protect this crown.

There are a number of take-aways from this today. Things are not always as they appear. God is in control and no amount of Magi presence or kingly threats by the likes of Herod will deter from the will of God. Jesus is King!

Dear Heavenly Father,

Lead us on the path to you, the straight path of faith and obedience. Let us not be fooled by shiny objects, but to look only to Your Son for Salvation. That is where our peace and hope and joy resides. Amen.

Note: Other resources suggested instead of 3 wisemen, there were more than likely 300+ royal worshippers who made the lengthy trip, following a star. Can you picture that? What a concept! And certainly, most fitting for King Jesus.