December 15, 2024
SUNDAY RECAP
A Tale of Two Kingdoms: Choosing Between Our Crown and Christ's
As we reflect on the Christmas story, we're drawn to a powerful juxtaposition that goes far beyond the nativity scene. It's a tale of two kingdoms - one built on earthly power and personal glory, the other founded on heavenly authority and sacrificial love. This contrast is vividly illustrated in the account of King Herod and the wise men in Matthew chapter 2.
Herod the Great, known for his architectural marvels and political savvy, represents the epitome of worldly success. He was arguably the wealthiest man of his time, with riches that would rival today's billionaires. His ambitious building projects, including the renovation of the Second Temple in Jerusalem and the fortress of Masada, were testament to his desire for lasting fame and recognition.
Yet, for all his grandeur, Herod's kingdom was built on shifting sand. When news of a child "born king of the Jews" reached his ears, his reaction was one of fear and hostility. This supposed ruler, so secure in his position, was "deeply disturbed" by the mere mention of an infant king.
In stark contrast, we have the wise men - royal officials from the East who embarked on a perilous journey spanning months, possibly years. These learned individuals, likely influenced by the prophecies of Daniel, recognized the true significance of the star they had observed. Unlike Herod, who clung desperately to his power, the wise men willingly laid aside their status and reputation to seek out and worship the Christ child.
This narrative presents us with a profound question: What kingdom are we living in? Are we, like Herod, desperately trying to maintain control over our little "toy crowns," or are we willing, like the wise men, to lay everything down at the feet of Jesus?
The collision points between these two kingdoms are clear:
Expediency vs. Integrity: Herod's faith was one of convenience, adopting Jewish customs merely to legitimize his rule. The wise men, however, demonstrated genuine faith, risking everything to follow the star and honor the true King.
Isolation vs. Association: While Herod retreated into secrecy, surrounding himself only with those who agreed with him, the wise men sought out the Christ child, willingly associating themselves with a humble family in less-than-royal surroundings.
Secrecy vs. Vulnerability: Herod plotted in secret, unwilling to expose his true intentions. The wise men, on the other hand, made themselves vulnerable - risking their reputations, safety, and lives to worship Jesus openly.
Affluence vs. Influence: Herod's focus was on accumulating wealth and building monuments to himself. The wise men used their resources to honor Christ, bringing valuable gifts fit for a king.
These contrasts challenge us to examine our own lives. Are we living for our own glory, building our personal kingdoms that will ultimately crumble? Or are we willing to humble ourselves, lay down our crowns, and submit to the true King?
The imagery of a child's paper crown from a fast-food restaurant serves as a poignant reminder. How often do we strut around, proudly wearing our flimsy, self-made crowns, pretending to rule over our little domains? Yet, in comparison to Christ's eternal kingdom, our earthly accomplishments and accolades are nothing more than toys.
The good news of the gospel is that we don't have to keep up this charade. God invites us to take off our paper crowns and kneel before the King of Kings. It's in this act of surrender that we find true freedom, purpose, and belonging.
This surrender isn't a one-time event, but a daily choice. Even as believers, we often find ourselves reaching for that crown again, trying to assert control over areas of our lives. The challenge is to continually lay these things down, trusting in God's sovereign and gracious rule.
Importantly, when we submit to Christ's kingdom, we're not just gaining a King - we're joining a family. The church, imperfect as it may be, is where we find community, support, and opportunities for growth. Like the stable where Christ was born, it may be messy and humble, but it's where we encounter Jesus.
As we contemplate these truths, let's consider:
What areas of our lives are we still trying to control, refusing to surrender to God's leadership?
Are we isolating ourselves, or are we willing to be vulnerable and connected within the body of Christ?
How are we using our resources? Are we building our own kingdoms or investing in God's eternal purposes?
Is our faith genuine, or are we, like Herod, merely putting on a religious facade for personal gain?
The wise men's journey reminds us that seeking Christ often requires sacrifice, risk, and a willingness to look foolish in the world's eyes. But the reward - encountering the living God - far outweighs any earthly cost.
As we move forward, let's be inspired by their example. May we have the courage to lay down our paper crowns, step out of our comfort zones, and pursue Christ with wholehearted devotion. For in His kingdom, we find a love, purpose, and fulfillment that no earthly realm can match.
In the end, every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. The question is - will we do it now, willingly and joyfully, or will we wait until it's too late? The invitation stands: Come, lay down your crown, and find your true identity as a beloved child of the King of Kings.
As we reflect on the Christmas story, we're drawn to a powerful juxtaposition that goes far beyond the nativity scene. It's a tale of two kingdoms - one built on earthly power and personal glory, the other founded on heavenly authority and sacrificial love. This contrast is vividly illustrated in the account of King Herod and the wise men in Matthew chapter 2.
Herod the Great, known for his architectural marvels and political savvy, represents the epitome of worldly success. He was arguably the wealthiest man of his time, with riches that would rival today's billionaires. His ambitious building projects, including the renovation of the Second Temple in Jerusalem and the fortress of Masada, were testament to his desire for lasting fame and recognition.
Yet, for all his grandeur, Herod's kingdom was built on shifting sand. When news of a child "born king of the Jews" reached his ears, his reaction was one of fear and hostility. This supposed ruler, so secure in his position, was "deeply disturbed" by the mere mention of an infant king.
In stark contrast, we have the wise men - royal officials from the East who embarked on a perilous journey spanning months, possibly years. These learned individuals, likely influenced by the prophecies of Daniel, recognized the true significance of the star they had observed. Unlike Herod, who clung desperately to his power, the wise men willingly laid aside their status and reputation to seek out and worship the Christ child.
This narrative presents us with a profound question: What kingdom are we living in? Are we, like Herod, desperately trying to maintain control over our little "toy crowns," or are we willing, like the wise men, to lay everything down at the feet of Jesus?
The collision points between these two kingdoms are clear:
Expediency vs. Integrity: Herod's faith was one of convenience, adopting Jewish customs merely to legitimize his rule. The wise men, however, demonstrated genuine faith, risking everything to follow the star and honor the true King.
Isolation vs. Association: While Herod retreated into secrecy, surrounding himself only with those who agreed with him, the wise men sought out the Christ child, willingly associating themselves with a humble family in less-than-royal surroundings.
Secrecy vs. Vulnerability: Herod plotted in secret, unwilling to expose his true intentions. The wise men, on the other hand, made themselves vulnerable - risking their reputations, safety, and lives to worship Jesus openly.
Affluence vs. Influence: Herod's focus was on accumulating wealth and building monuments to himself. The wise men used their resources to honor Christ, bringing valuable gifts fit for a king.
These contrasts challenge us to examine our own lives. Are we living for our own glory, building our personal kingdoms that will ultimately crumble? Or are we willing to humble ourselves, lay down our crowns, and submit to the true King?
The imagery of a child's paper crown from a fast-food restaurant serves as a poignant reminder. How often do we strut around, proudly wearing our flimsy, self-made crowns, pretending to rule over our little domains? Yet, in comparison to Christ's eternal kingdom, our earthly accomplishments and accolades are nothing more than toys.
The good news of the gospel is that we don't have to keep up this charade. God invites us to take off our paper crowns and kneel before the King of Kings. It's in this act of surrender that we find true freedom, purpose, and belonging.
This surrender isn't a one-time event, but a daily choice. Even as believers, we often find ourselves reaching for that crown again, trying to assert control over areas of our lives. The challenge is to continually lay these things down, trusting in God's sovereign and gracious rule.
Importantly, when we submit to Christ's kingdom, we're not just gaining a King - we're joining a family. The church, imperfect as it may be, is where we find community, support, and opportunities for growth. Like the stable where Christ was born, it may be messy and humble, but it's where we encounter Jesus.
As we contemplate these truths, let's consider:
What areas of our lives are we still trying to control, refusing to surrender to God's leadership?
Are we isolating ourselves, or are we willing to be vulnerable and connected within the body of Christ?
How are we using our resources? Are we building our own kingdoms or investing in God's eternal purposes?
Is our faith genuine, or are we, like Herod, merely putting on a religious facade for personal gain?
The wise men's journey reminds us that seeking Christ often requires sacrifice, risk, and a willingness to look foolish in the world's eyes. But the reward - encountering the living God - far outweighs any earthly cost.
As we move forward, let's be inspired by their example. May we have the courage to lay down our paper crowns, step out of our comfort zones, and pursue Christ with wholehearted devotion. For in His kingdom, we find a love, purpose, and fulfillment that no earthly realm can match.
In the end, every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. The question is - will we do it now, willingly and joyfully, or will we wait until it's too late? The invitation stands: Come, lay down your crown, and find your true identity as a beloved child of the King of Kings.
Posted in Daily Devos