Disturbed
Read Matthew 2:1-2
Today’s Truth
Yesterday we read about the Magi from the East, who, upon noticing the first Christmas star ornamenting the night sky, set out on a journey to seek the Messiah and worship Him. In stark contrast, today read that when King Herod and “all Jerusalem” heard about Jesus’ birth, they were disturbed.
Disturbed! In the original Greek that word can mean agitated, stirred-up, troubled and afraid.
Isn’t it interesting that you don’t have to look far to see the same wide spectrum of responses to Jesus’ birth today? You may not even have to look past your own family or group of friends to see such different reactions to Jesus.
And yet, nobody could argue with Micah’s prophecy, written some 700 years earlier. Herod demanded answers, and a voice from the past echoed truth down long corridors of time. Maybe if Herod had not been so worried about losing his status, his position, his perceived control, he might have noticed something sweetly significant in that last prophetic sentence.
“’…a ruler who will shepherd my people Israel.’”
This Ruler is different. He’s come to lead, but in the humblest way.
On the list of dirty jobs, it doesn’t get much worse than shepherding. This was not a glamorous position for a king to take.
What kind of Ruler loves like this? These days I find myself asking, what am I so worried about losing that I’d let it keep me from seeking my Messiah and worshiping Him?
Discussion Questions
- What are you holding onto so hard that the idea of Jesus ruling your life is, frankly, unsettling? Disturbing?
- Just like a shepherd tending to his flock, Jesus wants to lead you, love and tenderly care for you. Will you let Him? Explain how.
Application
Lord Jesus,
Help me to let go of anything that is coming between me and you. You deserve my wholehearted worship! Break down any walls that are keeping me from you.
