“Then Herod secretly called for the magi and determined from them the exact time the star
appeared” (Matthew 7).

In paranoia, Herod wants to be rid of the threat. We live in a world filled with paranoid and
hostile people. The Lord has come to save us in spite of ourselves. We try to figure things out
and make them go the way we want. The Lord already knows how things will turn out and will
direct it such that all things will work together for good for those who come into the light of His
presence.

Lord, sometimes I too plot, but I do not consider it bad or wicked. The truth is, anything that is
not according to Your will is sin. Help me to focus upon living the life for which my Savior died
that I might be lifted up into a life like His. Who knows the exact time of anything except You,
Lord? Guide me to trust You who knows these things so that I may humbly walk in the faith You
have given me.

My Savior Jesus, born in the village of Bethlehem, bring me to You so that I may join the
Magi and worship You. You have gifted me with the gifts I have and called me through my
baptism to live into the life for which You have prepared me to live the right way by grace.
Always be the One who is the shining star for me to see and follow. Close my ears to the ones
who would lead me astray. Teach me humble faithfulness. Amen.

“They said to him, “In Bethlehem of Judea; for this is what has been written by the
prophet: ‘And you, Bethlehem, land of Judah, Are by no means least among the leaders of
Judah; For from you will come forth a Ruler Who will shepherd My people Israel’”
(Matthew 2:5-6).

Read the rest of the prophecy. Born in Bethlehem to be a shepherd. A leader, but not a
commander. Oh, how this world messes these things up. He who is worthy of all honor and
praise is our friend. He comes to care for us and lead us. Gentle, yes, but also the One through
whom all things have their being. He is the Good Shepherd who leads those who know that He
prevails against sin, death, and the devil.

Lord, Your word is so rich and deep as it tells what will happen, just as it told those then what
would happen. In all of these things, we know that You have come to give us new life in You.
You have come to be the Good Shepherd of the souls who trust in You. According to Your grace
and mercy, open the eyes and ears of the faithful to see and hear these things and lead us into the
fold of Your bride, the church.

Good Shepherd of my soul, guide me along right paths this day that I would see Your hand
leading me. Keep me from wandering to the edges of the places which are safe so that I may
be nourished by You, the Bread of Life. You have given Your life so that we who are in need,
may be fed with the heavenly food. Thank You for granting grace and mercy so that I may
dwell forever in Your house. Amen.