Promises of Tomorrow

Earlier this month, The Nativity Story offered a plain, authentic version of the birth of Christ. One aspect of it focused on Herod the Great, the political ruler of Judea who was paranoid about the arrival of a new rival to his rule. To avoid any challenge, Herod ordered for the killing of male children in Bethlehem so no one could usurp his authority. He did not want to lose his legacy, like King Saul in the Ancient Testament.

King Saul's son, Jonathan, also had a choice to make about his destiny. Samuel had anointed David as the new king while Saul was still on the throne. Threatened by David's reputation, Saul became David's worst enemy. Jonathan became loyal to David instead of his father, out of admiration or strategy. As a result, Jonathan gave up his due inheritance and his name for the sake of the greater good for his people.

These two men, Herod and Jonathan, went in two different directions regarding the path of history. Herod wished to maintain his reign at any cost, even attempting to ruin a fresh start for the kingdom of God's chosen. Jonathan embraced the change of royalty, finding a place to give up his fate for the cause of another purpose. As did them, we have a choice when our status and reputation are threatened by new life. How do we respond?

This Christmas, discover how to surrender and be the servant of renewal. Be like Jonathan and not like Herod. Learn to realize the promises of tomorrow.