One year when our family was traveling through Ohio on the way to Grandmas house, we arrived in Columbus just as a tornado warning was issued. Suddenly everything changed as we feared that our children might be in danger.
I mention that story to help us imagine what it was like for Josephs family as he, Mary, and their young child traveled to Egypt. Herod, not a tornado, threatened them as he sought to kill their little boy. Imagine how frightening it was for them, knowing that Herod [sought] the young Child to destroy Him (Matt. 2:13).
We usually take a more idyllic view of Christmastimelowing cattle and kneeling shepherds in a peaceful scene. But there was no peace for Jesus family as they sought to escape Herods horror. Only when an angel told them it was safe did the family go out of Egypt and back home to Nazareth (vv.20-23).
Consider the awe we should feel for the incarnation. Jesus, who enjoyed the majesty of heaven in partnership with the Father, set it all aside to be born in poverty, to face many dangers, and to be crucified for us. Coming out of Egypt is one thing, but leaving heaven for usthats the grand and amazing part of this story!
Good evening, Mayor, and thank you for today’s sustenance for body and soul.
More above freezing for us for the second day...drip, drip, drip, drip. All the loose snow from the front yard is now on the driveway...heavy winds yesterday.
Did you have kids home for Christmas?