So far this week we have looked at how Jesus’ coming was part of a much larger story that was unfolding, that he came as both the promised Messiah and Emmanuel (God with us) and that his birth threatened a king who responded with the savage annihilation of innocent children. Today we reflect on the ugly demise of Herod the Great and God’s preservation of the promised child.
But, before you begin today’s reflection maybe just pause , turn your attention to God and pray the prayer below:
Lord, may we, like the wise men from foreign lands,
observe the rising of your star in the darkness of this season.
We may not have gold, frankincense, or Myrrh,
But we offer you today our time, attention, and trust.
Amen
Daily Scripture: Matthew 2:19-23
Find the above scripture in your bible and read slowly – you might want to read it out loud. You can also find it here.
Advent Quote: Demise of Herod
Below is an abridged account from an ancient Jewish historian called Josephus where he describes Herod’s death. He says that …
‘[Herod] then returned back and came to Jericho on the verge of death and in such a sad physical state and he then proceeded to attempt something horribly wicked; for he got together the most noble men of the whole Jewish nation, out of every village, and gathered them into a place called the Hippodrome, and shut them in. He then called for his sister Salome, and her husband Alexas, and made this speech to them: “I am aware that the Jews will have to mark my death, but I have the power to make sure that I am mourned properly and have a splendid funeral. I just need your help. I need you to make sure that when I die you will order the soldiers to slay all the nobles in the Hippodrome so that all of Judea will weep at my passing whether they want to or not’!
Advent Song
Advent Poem
The Christmas Spirit
is that hope
which tenaciously clings
to the hearts of the faithful
and announces
in the face
of any Herod the world can produce
and all the inn doors slammed in our faces
and all the dark nights of our souls
that with God
all things are possible,
that even now
unto us
a child is born!
(Ann Weems)
As always, we would love to hear your thoughts and reflections and so please do leave a comment in the section at the bottom of this page. Much love to you all on this Advent journey!
No Evening Zoom Reflection Tonight!
As it is Friday there will be no evening reflection over Zoom tonight but we look forward to seeing you on Sunday!
Feel free to leave a comment below with any thoughts, prayers or things God might have been speaking to you about.