There is a saying that when a powerful nation sneezes, everyone else catches a cold. Why is this so? Does this also apply to individuals? Perhaps you have some insights to share on this as we consider Today’s Holy Nougat.
““Where is the newborn king of the Jews? We saw his star as it rose, and we have come to worship him.” King Herod was deeply disturbed when he heard this, as was everyone in Jerusalem.” Matthew 2:2-3 NLT
As was Everyone…
The statement above seems very apt as we reflect on the power Herod wielded. He successfully thwarted the Hasmonean rule, a priestly family that staved off Roman integration in Judea and its environs for 100+ years. With the overthrow of the dynasty after 3 years of war, Herod established himself as a powerful ruler. Not only was Herod powerful, but he was extremely ruthless. He was once described by Josephus (a commentator of those times) as tyrannical. Those who were in his court sought to keep him happy. Hence, when Herod was upset, so was everyone else around him.
Self-Check
Have we been guilty of people pleasing? To what end?
Application
For those of us who know what happened next, or is very easy to see why everyone around Herod got upset. The announcement of a new king – of the Jews – was a threat to his, Herod’s, reign. Some scholars suggest that Judea was strategically located to allow access to Syria and other cities, thus offering security to his reign within the Roman system. However, he had other major threats to his reign, and a new king meant insurrection!
Siblings, as powerful as someone seems today, there is a king, the King of the Jews, who is far more powerful. Moreover, this King of the Jews is no longer a vulnerable, innocent baby. He actually is our powerful and risen Lord. There is no despot, no tyrant anywhere – at home, work, church, or in the entire world – whose power can surpass that of our King.
Herod had every right to be afraid. His reign wasn’t just under threat – it had already been overthrown. He just didn’t realise the full extent of that reality. And so it is for rulers today. Remember, Isaiah’s prophetic word, that Y’shua’s kingdom is eternal. His resurrection confirms it. No matter what someone is enjoying at our expense today, they have to contend with the King of the Jews. He is seated at God’s Throne and intercedes for you and me. Our situation isn’t as bleak as it seems.
It’s time to put off mourning at our situation and rejoice. We are the subjects of the Most High God, Whose kingdom has no end. No matter how annoyed Herod is, our God reigns, and all is well (will be well).
Point to Ponder
Are we so busy watching Herod that we’re failing to see what Christ is doing through, with, in, and for us? Time to praise.
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May all we seek be found in Christ
