Prophecy: Jesus & His Birth - Preparing For Christmas Series #2Sample

The massacre of children at the Messiah's birthplace

Thoughts on the Passage

There are some things in life that make no sense. There is evil that kills and destroys, and we cannot understand why it happened. It must have been exactly like this for the mothers and fathers of Bethlehem who lost their sons. Why did Herod kill all these innocent children? Why did my son have to die? Where is God in the midst of this tragedy?

First, it tells us about the evil of men. Herod was a wicked ruler and he killed innocent people. This world has evil people who kill and destroy.

Second, this passage is written to these mothers and fathers – as well as us today. They now knew why their children died. It was to protect their Messiah.

Third, there is an understanding that these children died to protect Jesus. We call them martyrs today. They died defending our Savior. 

When I get to heaven, I want to meet these special children. I want to meet these special parents. I want to say “thank you”. I want them to know that the sacrifice they paid opened the door for all mankind to receive salvation.

Time to Pray

Father, I know that You hide things from us – we do not know why things happen the way they do. It is so painful at times. However, today I lay these painful memories at Your feet. There was a reason. There is a reason. It is not clear to me, but You did it for a purpose that will be revealed at the right time. For those parents today who grieve over lost children – whether physically or spiritually – give them Your peace today. Give them an understanding that we can weep and grieve over the loss. It happened before – but You gave us the reason in time. Give us patience to wait until we understand. In Jesus’ Name Amen.