Where is the Child?

You are significant

Today is a new experience for me because I have never participated in Star Word. Epiphany-a usually sudden manifestation or perception of the essential nature or meaning of something. 2. a moment in which you suddenly see or understand something in a new or very clear way.

The Magi had anticipated the coming of the savior for a long time. In verse two we see that Jesus was given a star. The star was there to honor the savior and lead those who were looking for the savior.

I have heard it said that wherever good tries to make an appearance, evil is trying to stop it. Before we move on any farther I want to stop here and ask you to pray with me for a moment.

Now look at the evil I was talking about. Jesus is being born and Herod is looking for him. Herod disguises himself as someone genuinely seeking the savior, but evil tries to appear as light but darkness prevails. 3 When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him; 4 and assembling all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Christ was to be born.

The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. (2016). (Mt 2:3–4). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles.

Notice that when they answer Herod concerning the savior they quote scripture. 5 They told him, “In Bethlehem of Judea, for so it is written by the prophet:

6  “ ‘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.’ ”

The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. (2016). (Mt 2:5–6). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles.

If you are looking for Jesus the location is not that hard to find. It does require reading the story. This reminds me of the many times I have gotten lost in my life. Men do not do well with admitting they need help.

Herod was seeking the Savior because he wanted to kill the savior. He sought the help of strangers to tell him where the child was being born. Herod really had the ability to read or have the text explained to him but often times when the text contradicts what we are seeking for we reject the text. Lets put this all in the context of today. The world wants what the world wants. I believe deep down inside we all seek for peace and joy, but many times we define what fills the bill. The Bible tells us that God want us to be filled with His peace.

Lets look at the second half of today’s passage. Herod summons the wise men to meet with him. Evil summons us every day to do it’s bidding. The world knows who have the light in them and they seek you out to deceive you. Go and search diligently for the child, and when you have found him, bring me word, that I too may come and worship him.”

The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. (2016). (Mt 2:8). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles.

Now you could go away from this conversation and think Herod is a thoughtful person who wants to come and worship the savior, who are we to deny him of this great honor. After their meeting with Herod they continue on their way. The star still lights the way. This is why I plead with you that we are a spirit led church, praying for each other and the pathway of our journey together. The Magi saw the savior, they praised and honored him with gifts. But what I see as a greater honor is that they listened not only to get to the savior but to not lead evil to the spot.