The King Herods in our lives

This week’s Gospel highlights two contrasting attitudes to the search for and the finding of the infant Jesus. The Magi represent hope, risk taking, joy and reverence while Herod symbolizes fear, insecurity, rejection, deception and ultimately violence.

The Magi saw Jesus as a blessing from God and responded with adventure and gifts. Herod saw Jesus as a threat to his power and responded with deceit and hostility.

This contrast invites us to reflect - How do we respond when faced with the star of the Christ Child that calls us to something greater? Like the Magi? Choosing hope, trust and adventure, stepping out in faith even when the journey ahead is uncertain?

If we do, we must be prepared for the King Herods we will encounter. Those rooted in fear, doubt, and resistance to change. These Herods may appear as external obstacles—individuals or systems that challenge our dreams and attempt to derail our journey.

When we encounter these external Herods, their fear and resistance can manifest as criticism, discouragement, or even active opposition. Like Herod, they may see our pursuit of the Christ Child and His call in our lives as a threat to their sense of control or security.

These obstacles can be disheartening, but the example of the Magi teaches us how to respond. They did not confront Herod with hostility or fear but remained focused on their purpose—to find and honor the Christ Child. Their wisdom and perseverance allowed them to navigate around Herod’s schemes and continue their journey.

Similarly, we are called to remain steadfast in our faith, discerning God’s guidance and trusting in His protection. By responding with grace, humility, and courage, we can overcome these external challenges and stay true to the star that leads us to Christ.

Sometimes, these conflicting attitudes can arise within our own hearts, where hope battles insecurity. This Gospel challenges us to examine our intentions and reactions: Do we approach the Christ Child with open hearts, willing to give of ourselves or as internal struggles, where fear and self-doubt threaten to overshadow our faith.

Do we resist, clinging to comfort and control? The Magi teach us that following the star leads to joy and transformation, but it requires courage, perseverance, and a willingness to leave behind what holds us back.

They teach us that the call to follow the star is worth the risk. Their journey was not without hardship, but their perseverance brought them to the Christ Child, where they experienced joy, wonder, and fulfillment.

Likewise, our journey toward the Christ Child requires courage and steadfastness. By choosing to trust in the star and remain faithful to the path, we can overcome the Herods we face and discover the blessings waiting at the journey’s end.