We should not be surprised at the dynamic tension Christmas creates. On the one hand, our world fills its stores in commercial pursuit, and on the other, it argues against Christianity’s right to put nativity scenes in public squares. It is the way of the world’s spirit to want the profit and resist the prophecies.
When Herod met the regal wise men who seemed to promise commerce from the East, he was ready to assist their journey. It was good business to cooperate with wealthy men travelling through his territory. When he discovered their journey had been prompted by prophecies of another king, Herod was troubled.
Don’t be distracted by the misconceptions or distortions of the world’s spirit at Christmastime. May we never become embittered by that spirit’s protests, as it is being “troubled” by our pursuit of the King and our desire to worship Him.
Simply, stay on course. The pathway to Bethlehem may be doubted by the world, but it is still the pathway to hope and salvation for all who believe.
