The History Behind The Christmas Story (Part Six)

Herod had been tricked by the Magi because they had nor told him where he could find the baby Jesus. He was irate and so he ordered the slaughter of all boys under the age of two. God went to Joseph in a dream and told him to take Mary and Jesus and escape to Egypt where they would be safe. In the meantime, the killing of these children caused much mayhem and grief in the families of those that were killed all because a wicked king did not want this baby to grow up and possibly de-throne him.

You see, King Herod was the 'King of the Jews' but he was not a Jew. He was a Nabatean and really a puppet to the Roman government. He was actually hated by most Jews and the feeling was very mutual. It is not a surprise that this King would try to rid the baby Jesus for his own selfish reasons and of course, the plot that fueled in his mind was from none other than the old devil Satan, himself.

But Jesus was kept safe by his heavenly Father and Josephs obedience to make their escape to Egypt. It was just a part of a much bigger plan of God to bring Jesus into the world to save it from sin. 

The Magi had taken the three gifts to present to Jesus which of course were gold, frankincense, and myrrh. And they may have well been used by his Joseph and Mary as currency to finance their life in Egypt. Frankincense and myrrh are resins that come from trees. They have medicinal purposes and were and still are used in many religions. 

The Bible does not give us specific reasons for why these three gifts were actually brought to Jesus upon his birth. However, tradition does have a deeper meaning for them. If you would like to know more about the possible reasons and meanings for these gifts, please visit: Why did the Magi bring gold, frankincense, and myrrh to Jesus?

Today's Christmas Scripture: Isaiah 40:5 The glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all people will see it together. For the mouth of the Lord has spoken.

Indeed the mouth of the Lord has spoken, and those that have not heard it or refused to hear it will in do time see and hear it. Because it will happen and as God has proclaimed. Are you ready? The greatest gift you can to yourself or anyone is to put your trust in Jesus as I said in yesterday's blog. Because, after all, it was first He who gave Himself for us. 

I am glad you came today Friends. Have a wonderfully blessed day as our thoughts are turned even more to Jesus' whose birth we celebrate in just a couple more days. Please come back tomorrow. I plan on being here through all of the holidays. Other source used today, see:

Travels in Africa and The Escape to Egypt -- The History of The Christmas Story -- whychristmas?com