Two kings are at the center of this story—one desperate to hold on to power, the other born to give it away.
King Herod heard the news from the Magi: A child had been born, “the King of the Jews.” For Herod, this wasn’t good news; it was a threat. Herod was a man who lived in fear—fear of losing control, fear of someone else’s rise being his fall. So he schemed, lied, and plotted to eliminate Jesus before he could even learn to walk.
And yet, there’s Jesus. A baby, vulnerable and unthreatening on the surface, but bringing a kingdom that would outlast Herod’s wildest dreams. The Magi recognized this. They knelt before Jesus, worshiping the true King—not one who ruled through fear, but one who would lead with love, sacrifice, and grace.
Herod’s fear reminds us of our own tendencies. How often do we hold tightly to our control, our plans, our little “kingdoms,” afraid God’s way might disrupt them? But here’s the truth: We don’t have to live in fear like Herod. Jesus invites us into a better kingdom, one where grace replaces control and love casts out fear.
The Magi’s worship shows us another way. They risked their lives to kneel before Jesus because they knew he was worth it. Herod’s power was fleeting, but Jesus’ kingdom is eternal. The question we face every day is this: Which king are we following?
Questions for reflection:
1. What areas of your life are you holding onto out of fear or control, and how might Jesus be inviting you to trust him instead?
2. Like the Magi, what is one way you can worship Jesus today—through your time, resources, or actions?
3. How does knowing that Jesus’ kingdom is eternal give you peace in the face of temporary challenges?