Old Year's Eve

Today, we descend to the penultimate step before the year ends. Today, mindful that we are still resisting any temptations to betray our trust in our Advent King, or be party to any conspiracies against Him, we keep our ears attuned and our eyes fixed on Jesus, who alone can help us. We are assured, without any speculation of doubt, that through the Holy Spirit, we will know and continue to know the angelic chorus of peace, goodwill and glad tiding, as we end this year. We trust our Lord to save us from being seduced by any demonic, satanic ploys, to woo and trick us into betraying our King Jesus.

Pause for a moment to see the satanic, evil, murderous pretentiousness of an angel of Satan, for that is who Herod is. The wise men have travelled far, safely and perfectly guided by God, through His star. They have been guided all the way from the East to the West, to see Jesus and worship Him with their kingly gifts. These wise men, doing what is lawful and correct, come into the domain of King Herod as they seek to know where King Jesus is. Herod is very troubled indeed, as is all Jerusalem with him. His devious plan begins to take shape, as fear and jealousy raise their ugly heads. His one mission, his one intention is to destroy the new born Christ Child. Look at how he skilfully wields and works his flattery, falsity and fake-ness, as he pretends to join the wise men in their unhidden felicity. These men are brightly lit, brimming over with excitement, happiness and anticipation of finding the One who is born, King of the Jews.

O how the evil Herod takes over in his jurisdiction as king, interested in celebrating the birth of a new King. This is what he says to the wise men. And he sent them to Bethlehem and said, Go and search diligently for the young Child, and when you have found Him, bring back word to me, that I may come and worship Him also. Matthew 2: 8. Three revealed tactics of the deceiver have been brought to us in this most exposing verse. Ever be mindful of them.

Deceit comes in his power of dominion. It can’t be denied that Herod has dominion over Jerusalem and Judah. The wise men know this, so when Herod sends them to Bethlehem, they are going with the king’s authority. And he sent them to Bethlehem. Whether you like it or not, know that the evil one still has the authority to tempt you, but not make you obey.

Deceit comes in his position of decision. It is most interesting, is it not, that having travelled for months, years even, so far was the journey, that the deceiver places himself upfront, as the one more desirous and more excitedly anxious than you, to see the Christ Child. Listen to him carefully. Go and search diligently for the young Child. Diligently? Go and search, not half-heartedly, not lazily and certainly not as though this is not your priority at the moment. O how the deceiver always assumes charge.

Deceit comes in his posture of dedication. It simply can’t be faulted, these piously humble words. Tell me where Jesus is, because I too want to leave where I am and go to wherever He is, so that I can worship Him, as you have done. And when ye have found him, bring me word again, that I may come and worship him also. Do you see how deceit comes alongside you, to match you in worship?

Be astute! If the deceiver tried to deceive wise men, people under the guidance and obedience of God, do you think he will not try to trick you into his evil way?

Be alert!