Scripture

That night Joseph left for Egypt with the child and Mary, his mother, and they stayed there until Herod’s death.

Observation

An angel of the Lord appears to Joseph in a dream and warns him to take his family to Egypt as Herod wants to kill the boy.

Furious, Herod orders all the boys in Bethlehem under two years old to be killed.

After Herod’s death, an angel again appears to Joseph to tell him that it is safe to return to Israel.

When Joseph learns that Judea is under the control of Herod’s son Archelaus, he takes the family to Nazareth in Galilee.

Application

In some ways, the life of Jesus reflects the history of Israel. Just as the nation fled to Egypt and then was called out of that land much later, Jesus and his family were forced to flee to Egypt to escape the ruthless tyranny of Herod. He later returned to grow up in Galilee in the village of Nazareth.

Matthew reminds us that this is to fulfil prophecy. Jesus was not an accident or a human invention. Much of His life, death, and resurrection were foretold by the Old Testament prophets

Herod tried to prevent a rival king taking his position. When God moves, no person, not even a powerful king, can resist Him.

Whatever plans God may have for my life, nobody can prevent them from coming to pass.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, I confess that you are greater than human power. Thank you for the assurance that your ways will overcome every opposition. Amen.