The Rage of Herod

Matthew 2: 16-16

“16 When Herod realized that he had been outwitted by the Magi, he was furious, and he gave orders to kill all the boys in Bethlehem and its vicinity who were two years old and under, in accordance with the time he had learned from the Magi. 17 Then what was said through the prophet Jeremiah was fulfilled: 18 “A voice is heard in Ramah, weeping and great mourning, Rachel weeping for her children and refusing to be comforted, because they are no more.”

Herod’s fear upon hearing of the Magi turned to rage when he understood that they had not obeyed him.  He suddenly realized that there were some things that were not within his control.  So he lashed out, using his full authority and power against the innocents in Bethlehem.

In Herod a terrible prophecy was fulfilled, mothers weeping for their children, refusing to be comforted.

In Christ, a wonderful prophecy was unfolding.  "When Israel was a child, I loved him, and out of Egypt I called my son.” (Hosea 11:1)

The Son of God yet lived... in Egypt.

May the love of Christ be with you,

Rev. Eric Lanier (Retired)