Christmas Eve Meditation

The story of Christmas was meant to change us from the inside out. Matthew 2 revolves around this very idea—hearts being redirected and transformed. When the Magi, mysterious seekers from the East, encountered the newborn Christ, they didn't just observe the moment; they were changed by it.

Matthew tells us:

"And having been warned in a dream not to go back to Herod, they returned to their country by another route." (Matthew 2:12)

At first glance, the Magi had no reason to distrust Herod. Nothing in their meeting suggested danger. His words sounded sincere, even reverent. If we didn't have verse 12—or the heartbreak that follows with the slaughter of the innocents—we might believe Herod really wanted to worship Jesus too.

But God warned the Magi because God sees what we cannot: the truth of a person's heart.

Herod was a dead end—a counterfeit king—and God was gently telling them: "Don't go back. He's not what you're looking for. Keep moving."

And that raises a question for us: What are the "Herods" in your life?

The things that look shiny but feel wrong. The situations that promise peace but breed anxiety. The arguments with family you've rehearsed time and time again because it would feel so good to be right this time… but will that really build a relationship? Probably not.

Instead of returning to the familiar in the old way, go back by a new route. If you've encountered Christ, the true King, let the false ones go. Release the old patterns. Refuse the dead ends. Walk into this season with the light of His transforming love guiding you.