Although our calendar year is coming to an end, the lectionary reading calendar is still in its early stages, one might even say infancy. Today we read of the Holy Family’s flight into Egypt to escape the murderous fear of Herod, afraid to lose his throne. Herod who called himself “the Great” was known for his colossal building projects, including making improvements on the Second Temple.
Like many rulers of his time – and ours—however, he ws terrified that someone would take power from him. As a result of his fear, he created a secret police force to watch his subjects, Jews who did not trust him and any who seemed to undermine his rule. One could think of Herod as an ancient Stalin, who didn’t trust anyone as well.
The lessons Herod gives our day is that, as Jefferson said, eternal vigilance is the price of liberty. Modern day Herods are only slightly more subtle, creating sham courts and making their opponents just disappear. For many, it’s a lesson too late for the learning.
Prayer for the Day
Vaster than our minds can fathom, yet as intimate as love itself,
We profess that you are God and that we are your people;
Forgive us, we pray, when we forget whose we are;
Subsuming you to our daily concerns and ideals.
Infuse us with your redeeming grace giving us strength,
So we are able to share your grace with the world.,
In the name of the One who is always with us,
Even Christ Jesus our Lord, Amen.
Thoughts for the Day
Courage is the price that life exacts for granting peace.
Amelia Earhart, pilot, adventurer (1897-1937)
When despair for the world grows in me ... I come into the peace of wild things who do not tax their lives with forethought of grief. I come into the presence of still water. And I feel above me the day-blind stars waiting with their light. For a time I rest in the grace of the world, and am free.
Wendell Berry, from his poem "The Peace of Wild Things"
The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?
The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?
When evildoers assail me to devour my flesh –
My adversaries and foes – they shall stumble and fall
Though an army encamp against me, my heart shall not fear;
Though war rise up against me, yet shall I be confident.
Psalm 27: 1-3
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