Jesus' infancy

 

    When Jesus was born, the magi (wise men) traveled to see him.  They had seen in the stars the signs of his birth because they were into astrology and black magic.  Their appearance ensures hope for Gentiles.  On their journey, they encountered King Herod from Rome.  He was not joyful about the promised king being born.  

    Herod thought it meant that his job was in jeopardy.  His brutal and suspicious side took over.  The king called the magi to him to discover all that they knew, especially when this special star appeared.    Then the king sent them on their way, but made them promise to return with where the child was located.  He told them that he wanted to be able to worship the new king too.

    The magi found Jesus with Mary.  They began to worship and gave them treasures: gold, incense, and myrrh.  One or all of them had a dream that warned them not to return home the same route, so they took another route home to avoid the king.  

    After the departure of the wise men, an angel came to Joseph in another dream.  The angel told him to flee to Egypt because the king wanted to kill Jesus.  The king had given orders to kill all boys in Bethlehem who were two or under.  When the magi did not return he did his own research and sought to put an end of this prophecy of a messiah.  

    They made their escape that night and lived in Egypt until King Herod died.  This story fulfilled a prophecy made by Micah confirming by Jesus's birthplace to be great among shepherds throughout the world.  When it was safe to leave Egypt, an angel came to Joseph once again telling him that it was safe to return.  There was another prophecy about them fleeing to Egypt and the death of innocent boys.  

    The family returned to Israel when Jesus was about three years old.  Archelaus had succeeded Herod as king. He was known to be violent.  He was in Judea when the family returned, so the family changed course to Nazareth through Galilee.  This story parallels with Moses: Moses led his people from slavery of man, Jesus leads his people from slavery of Satan.

    

Matthew 2