King of Kings: An Advent Plan by New Life ChurchSýnishorn

King Herod was appointed to his throne by the Roman empire, so we can reasonably guess that he didn’t have Israel’s best interests in mind from the start. As we see him act out in fear and rage at the news of Jesus’ birth, we can begin to understand how unstable this king actually was. The orders Herod proclaimed once he realizes that the magi wouldn’t be reporting the young Messiah’s location to him are horrific. Herod was responsible for the murder of hundreds of innocent children—his own citizens—in his failed attempt to kill Jesus. 

In the midst of so much tragedy and heartbreak, we can take heart knowing that Jesus has overcome all evil and terror. “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it.” (John 1:5) Jesus accomplished the will of our Father by submitting Himself to die on the cross on our behalf and by overcoming the grave once and for all! This child came to walk in our broken world so He could bring comfort to all who mourn and win us freedom from the oppression of sin. As the Church, we are called to be the hands and feet of Jesus. We believe that we are all created with abilities to serve the local church and reach the world with the hope of Jesus. It’s our prayer that you wouldn’t be overwhelmed by the needs of the world around you, but that you would boldly come carry the Name of Jesus into it! 

Prayer: Jesus, thank You that the light of Your truth and grace still shines in the world and that it cannot be overcome! Age to age, Your love has been the light of all, unchangeable and eternally shining on us. I pray today for peace in areas of conflict and terror. Show me how to carry the light You’ve given me to the people in my world. Thank you for the peace that reigns in my life through every season. I honor you. Amen.