The Questions of Christmas: Part Four

“Where is the Messiah supposed to be born?”  [Matthew 2:4 – The Message]

Where were you born?  Probably not a question you get asked everyday and not a question you typically answer, especially to someone you just met.  Interestingly enough, this is a question used for identification purposes on background checks, passports, etc.  Where you were born says something about your identity.

King Herod was a deeply troubled man.  He feared losing his grip on power and authority.  He went to great lengths to maintain control of the throne.  He killed anyone who he thought posed a threat to him, including immediate family members.  So, it was no surprise that when he heard rumors (see last week’s blog) about a so-called “King of the Jews” that was born, he became very disturbed.  However, King Herod was not the only one concerned—the entire city of Jerusalem was in an uproar!  As a result, King Herod called a meeting of the leading priests and teachers of the religious law and asked the question, “Where is the Messiah supposed to be born?” 

Jesus came as a babe in a manger in the little town of Bethlehem. That was His physical birthplace.  It said a lot about Jesus’ identity. That was His earthly citizenship.  However,  the more important question has to do with His “spiritual” birthplace.  He wants to be more than the “King of the Jews.” He wants to be King of our lives.  He wants to be born in each of our hearts.  But that choice is ours to make. 

The Christmas season is filled with questions.  Over the last four weeks we have looked at questions that were asked by various individuals.  You may have lots of questions this year, too.  However, the most important question you can ask yourself is  “Has Jesus, the Christ of Christmas, the Messiah, been born in my heart?”

What is your answer?