Then Herod called the Magi secretly and found out from them the exact time the star had appeared. He sent them to Bethlehem and said, "Go and make a careful search for the child. As soon as you find him, report to me, so that I too may go and worship him."
[Mt 2:7-8]
Yes, evil enters even the holy birth story. It contains both light and dark. Two state-of-the-hearts.
In search of the King of Kings, these wise travelers receive a summons from a wicked earthly king. These men on a mission were tempted by an enemy with ulterior motives. The magi were confronted with the power of choice. That Herod's maneuver was trumped by God lends us hope. For in a battle of wills, the one strengthened by God always wins.
Their quest was protected and overseen by God -- not to be undone by the devious plot of the enemy. They were wise enough to realize that no one can offer worship for another. They chose to heed spiritual counsel and faded into history. The mark they made upon holy pages a lesson for us all.
Detours, distractions, and temptations abound this time of year. They attempt to steal the worship meant for Jesus. Seek the King with treasure of a pure heart, and -- as promised -- He will be found to receive your worship (Dt 4:29).
Almighty God; Don't let the trappings of the season make a Herod out of me. May I search out the King of Kings myself; worship Him for myself, for no one else can offer Him my heart. Amen.
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Thank you for sharing your heart.