Learning from Herod’s unhealthy attachments

The three magi are standard figures of the Christmas scene. While the New Testament never refers to the magi as kings, popular images nonetheless depict them wearing the accoutrements of royalty, such as crowns and ornate robes. The tradition stems from Psalms 60 and 72 and the reference to kings from the east bringing gifts to the Messiah. The popular Christmas carol binds together the Old and the New. 

Regardless of whether the magi were monarchs, there is at least one king who takes an interest in the child Jesus. Herod was curious about what the magi had come to see. Unlike the magi, though, Herod sees the Christ child as a threat. 

Why is Herod troubled while the others come offering gifts? The Gospel suggests that Herod was concerned that this new Messiah was born on his turf. It was his place on the throne that was presumably at risk. 

But if Herod really thought that the baby in Bethlehem was the Messiah, why would he think that he could so easily dispense of Him? Did Herod suppose that he could casually and easily foil God’s age-old plan? 

Perhaps Herod lost his faith in God’s providence before he lost his sense of security in his throne and title. History knows Herod to be a great builder who modernized Jerusalem for its time; he even improved upon and expanded the Temple. Success may have clouded his outlook. Perhaps he did not believe in this Messiah business. What really concerned him was that others did or would believe. Crushing the movement before it began made for good strategy. 

The contrast between Herod and the three magi is a peculiar one. The three magi come bringing gifts; Herod, on that same account, wants to take a gift away. The first Christmas Grinch was Herod. 

A concoction of fear and jealousy drove him. Jealousy must surely be among the worst of sins. Jealousy has none of the exhilaration of lust, none of the security that success in greedy pursuits can bring, and nothing of the euphoric confidence of pride. Instead of making one feel better about himself, jealousy makes one insecure. If ever a sin gave nothing in exchange,  those spurred on by jealousy hold that unenviable place. They are the devil’s cheapest bargains. 

Jealousy can also stoke fear. Herod was afraid of a baby who did not want anything that he possessed. Fear can grip us too, when God sends a trial our way that threatens to dislodge from us something to which we are too attached. 

It’s not difficult to become attached to something without giving much thought as to whether our grip on it — or rather its grip on us — might actually make it harder to get to heaven. This is one of the unfortunate consequences of the Fall; we can be attracted to things that do us harm. 

The new year is a time for resolution. So, consider the following. Think of something to which you might be attached — either something you have or something you want — that might be making it harder for you to get to heaven. It could be some practice or some grudge or bitterness. Something that is clouding your vision and obscuring your sight of the light of the star that takes you into the presence of Christ in heaven. Whatever it may be, try to let it go. Make it your gift to God this Christmas season. Draw a line between yourself and Herod, trusting that the light of God will draw you to the side of the magi.